US Updates Travel Advisory for Antarctica

The U.S. State Department reissued its Level 2 travel advisory for Antarctica this week.

Travelers visiting the popular cruise and expedition destination are reminded to exercise increased caution on the vast continent "due to environmental hazards posed by extreme and unpredictable weather and limited emergency services."

"There are no U.S. government consular services available to U.S. citizens in the Antarctic Region," the July 28 update states. "The closest U.S Embassies/Consulates are in Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa. U.S. government resources in the Antarctic Region are committed to the U.S. Antarctic Program, per longstanding U.S. policy."

Officials continue to advise travelers exploring Antarctica to purchase travel insurance with a comprehensive coverage policy and to "travel with a professional guide or organization such as those that are a member of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators."

Travelers should also prepare a contingency plan in the event of an emergency and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages that make it easier to be located in an emergency.

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