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What are Travel Advisories?
At White Glove Destinations we believe that knowledge is power! We won’t sugar coat things just to get you to book with us. We will tell you all the facts directly from the correct sources so that you are able to make your own educated decision. In a recent blog post I talked about Mexico safety. In that blog post I mentioned travel advisories and what level Mexico was. See that blog post here!
So what is a travel advisory? Travel Advisories are released by the U.S. Department of State. The Department of State issues a Travel Advisory for each country of the world. Travel Advisories follow a consistent format and use plain language to help U.S. citizens find and use important security information. Travel Advisories apply up to four standard levels of advice, describe the risks, and provide clear actions U.S. citizens should take to help ensure their safety. There may be varying levels within one country. While there may be “Exercise increased caution” (Level 2) in a country, but to “Reconsider travel” (Level 3) to a particular area within the country.
There are Four Advisory Levels
Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions: This is the lowest advisory level for safety and security risk. There is some risk in any international travel. Conditions in other countries may differ from those in the United States and may change at any time.
Some countries in this category include: Japan, Australia, Ireland, and Costa Rica.
Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution: Be aware of heightened risks to safety and security. The Departments of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
Some countries in this category include: Mexico, France, Germany, and China
Level 3: Reconsider Travel: Avoid travel due to serious risks to safety and security. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
Some countries in this category include: Russia, Turkey, Pakistan, and Hati
Level 4: Do Not Travel: This is the highest advisory level due to greater likelihood of life-threatening risks. During an emergency, the U.S. government may have very limited ability to provide assistance. The Department of State advises that U.S. citizens not travel to the country or to leave as soon as it is safe to do so. The Department of State provides additional advice for travelers in these areas in the Travel Advisory. Conditions in any country may change at any time.
Some countries in this category include: Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and North Korea
Risk Indicators Determine the Level
There are specific risk indicators that that the Department of State looks at to place a location in a Levels 2-4 travel advisory. These are:
Crime: Widespread violent or organized crime is present in areas of the country. Local law enforcement may have limited ability to respond to serious crimes.
Terrorism: Terrorist attacks have occurred and/or specific threats against civilians, groups, or other targets may exist.
Civil Unrest: Political, economic, religious, and/or ethnic instability exists and may cause violence, major disruptions, and/or safety risks.
Health: Health risks, including current disease outbreaks or a crisis that disrupts a country’s medical infrastructure, are present. The issuance of a Centers for Disease Control Travel Notice may also be a factor.
Natural Disaster: A natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger.
Time-limited Event: Short-term event, such as elections, sporting events, or other incidents that may pose safety risks.
Other: There are potential risks not covered by previous risk indicators. Read the country’s Travel Advisory for details.
For More information see the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories website.
Having worked for Walt Disney World and living minutes from the Orlando theme parks, Hallie has picked up countless insider tips and tricks. However, her passion for travel doesn’t end with Disney – she would be honored to plan your next dream vacation! Whether it be Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean, or even a cruise, she will tailor your vacation to fits your wants and needs. Being diagnosed with Celiac Disease, Hallie understands the severity of traveling with food allergies. She can help arrange any special food accommodations you need during your vacation! Hallie is a proud graduate from Metropolitan State University with a bachelor's degree in Hospitality, Tourism and Even management with a minor is sales. She is also a College of Disney Knowledge Graduate, Certified Orlando Travel Expert, Universal Orlando Resort Specialist, Viking Master Cruise Expert, Emerald/Scenic River Cruises Specialist, Sandals Certified Specialist, AMResorts Master Agent, Hawaii Vacation Specialist, Royal Caribbean Cruise Expert, Autism Certified Travel Specialist and CLIA Member
