The U.S. State Department issued a handful of updated travel advisories for countries around the world in January.
Guidance ranged from Level 1 (exercise normal precautions) to Level 4 (do not travel) and included some popular tourist destinations.
Here are the most notable updates from the past month.
New Zealand - Level 1
The State Department kicked off the new year by reissuing a Level 1 travel advisory for New Zealand on January 3, reminding travelers to exercise normal precautions in the island country, which recently increased its tax on international visitors.
United Arab Emirates - Level 2
A view of Dubai from Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. (Photo Credit: Claudette Covey)
As of January 6, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Middle East received a Level 2 travel advisory from the U.S. Visitors to popular destinations like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are advised to exercise increased caution due to the threat of terrorism and missile or drone attacks.
"Residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE, but regional tensions have aggravated the risk of attacks on U.S. citizens and interests," the State Department warned. "Militant groups operating in Yemen have threatened neighboring countries, including the UAE, with missile and drone attacks."
Israel, the West Bank and Gaza - Levels 3 and 4
Tensions in the Middle East continue to prompt periodic travel advisories for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.
On January 17, the State Department reminded Americans to avoid Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict and to stay away from northern Israel within 2.4 miles of the Lebanese and Syrian borders due to Israel’s continued military presence and activity.
Travelers are also advised to reconsider trips to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. Nonetheless, Israel continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure as more airlines resume operations to the country.
Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. (Photo Credit: Horváth Botond/Adobe)
Cyprus - Level 1
Travelers can continue to exercise normal precautions in the Mediterranean island country of Cyprus in 2025.
Officials only warn that visitors "do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point" as "police and UN peacekeeping forces strictly enforce this restriction."
Chile - Level 2
Americans are asked to exercise increased caution in Chile this winter due to crime and civil unrest. U.S. authorities warn that street crimes such as pick-pocketing and theft are common in the South American country and that rates of violent crime are increasing.
"Large-scale demonstrations periodically occur in Santiago and other cities in Chile. Demonstrations can take place with little or no notice, and often result in disruptions to transportation, including public bus and Santiago metro services," the State Department notes.
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