Author: Christopher Elliott (originally posted on Forbes.com on July 9, 2025)
A new U.S. State Department worldwide advisory urges Americans to exercise increased caution abroad. Here’s what experts say you have to do before and during your summer vacation.
Travel Isn’t As Safe As It Used To Be
It's not your imagination. Travel just got a little riskier. A U.S. State Department worldwide advisory now urges Americans to exercise increased caution abroad. Rising crime, protests and retaliatory threats have turned once-benign destinations into
potential flashpoints.
"Yes, travel is more dangerous right now," says John Gobbels, chief operating officer of Medjet, a medical transport and security response program for travelers.
Where Are The New Danger Zones?
I asked security experts, insurers and seasoned globetrotters to help identify the dangerous places for travelers. Their advice: Rethink where you go, how you get there and what you buy.
Don't Go Here
There are a few Middle East destinations that shouldn't be on your list now, according to Gobbels. He recommends avoiding the Gulf states, including Oman, UAE, Qatar and Bahrain. Obviously, Israel and Iran are off-limits during any conflict.
He's also concerned about conflict erupting between Taiwan and China. If things take a turn for the worse there, you might want to reroute your trip to Hong Kong. Level 4 "Do Not Travel" countries, such as Iran, Russia and Haiti, are no-gos, but Level
3 spots like Egypt also warrant scrutiny. "Even Level 2 countries have Level 4 zones," he warned, citing India’s border with Pakistan.
You can read the full article, “Travel Just Got Riskier: How To Stay Safe In A Dangerous World,” on Forbes.com.