Published on
October 23, 2025
Croatia joins Romania, Argentina, Barbados, Austria, Cayman Islands and more as the United States issues a comprehensive travel advisory, updating safety measures and regional risk warnings for American visitors in response to emerging security, health, and environmental concerns across key destinations. The latest advisory reflects a country-by-country reassessment, highlighting specific risks such as landmine zones in Croatia, seismic activity in Romania, and rising crime in Argentina’s Rosario, while also reaffirming that most of these nations remain safe for tourism under normal precautions. The update serves as a proactive guide, ensuring travellers are well-informed about local conditions, emergency readiness, and health advisories before embarking on international trips.
The United States Department of State has issued a new set of travel advisories for multiple destinations across Europe, South America, and the Caribbean, urging American travellers to stay alert and plan carefully before heading abroad. The advisory, released this week, updates safety and health guidelines for countries such as Croatia, Romania, Argentina, Austria, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Estonia, Greece, and Dominica, emphasising both routine precautions and region-specific risks.
This comprehensive update aims to ensure travellers remain informed about natural hazards, crime patterns, landmine zones, and emergency-readiness procedures while abroad. Each country has been assigned a safety level ranging from “Exercise Normal Precautions” to “Exercise Increased Caution,” helping travellers gauge potential concerns before booking their trips.
Croatia: Exercise Normal Precautions, With Landmine Risks in Select Regions
Croatia remains one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing millions of visitors to its Adriatic coast and UNESCO-listed cities. The US advisory categorises the country under Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, but raises a Level 2 caution for specific inland regions.
Areas of Increased Caution: Karlovac and Lika-Senj counties continue to carry landmine risks, remnants of the conflicts of the 1990s.Landmine Zones: Approximately 24.5 square kilometres of land are still being cleared, mostly forested or mountainous areas.Warning Signs: Areas at risk are clearly marked with the international landmine symbol—a red upside-down triangle featuring a skull and crossbones.Government Goal: Croatia expects to be fully demined by the end of 2026, marking a significant milestone for rural safety.
Travellers planning hiking, off-road, or countryside activities should strictly follow marked routes and heed posted warnings. Authorities advise enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and reviewing the Country Security Report before visiting.
Romania: Exercise Normal Precautions, But Note Seismic Activity
Romania’s mix of medieval towns, Carpathian landscapes, and the lively capital of Bucharest attracts growing numbers of American and European travellers. The advisory classifies Romania as Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, but it also flags moderate seismic activity.
Earthquake Zone: Bucharest faces the highest seismic risk, with historical records of strong earthquakes across the southern region.Preparedness Advice: Travellers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with emergency exits and building safety guidelines.Health and Safety: Visitors should consult the CDC’s latest travel health information and ensure insurance covers medical evacuation if needed.
Despite these geological factors, Romania remains a stable and safe destination for tourism, offering vibrant cultural experiences across Transylvania and the Black Sea coast.
Argentina: Exercise Normal Precautions, But Increased Caution in Rosario
Argentina, known for tango, Patagonia, and its world-class culinary scene, remains a Level 1 destination overall, though the City of Rosario (Santa Fe Province) is listed as Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution due to crime.
Crime Hotspot: Narcotics trafficking and related violence in Rosario have prompted the US to highlight safety concerns.Travel Measures: Visitors should avoid isolated areas after dark and rely on official taxis or rideshare services.Safety Resources: The advisory encourages travellers to follow the Department of State on official social media channels and to enrol in STEP for real-time alerts.
Elsewhere in the country—including Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Bariloche—tourism flows normally, and Argentina remains a top South American destination for Americans.
Austria: Exercise Normal Precautions in One of Europe’s Safest Destinations
Austria continues to rank among Europe’s safest countries. The US advisory keeps Austria at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions, meaning travellers face minimal security or health risks.
Low Crime Rates: Street crime remains rare, and public transport systems are widely trusted.Seasonal Advice: Visitors heading for ski resorts or alpine treks should check local weather updates and carry travel insurance covering winter activities.Embassy Support: The US Embassy in Vienna provides routine travel and emergency services through the STEP program.
Austria’s strong infrastructure and excellent medical system make it a reliable and secure choice for travellers year-round.
Barbados: Exercise Normal Precautions in the Caribbean Paradise
Barbados, with its golden beaches and warm hospitality, remains a Level 1 destination under the latest US guidance. Travellers are encouraged to maintain general awareness and basic security measures.
Local Laws: US authorities remind travellers that drug offences carry severe penalties.Travel Preparedness: Visitors should prepare a contingency plan and consult the CDC’s health page for updates on tropical illness prevention.Emergency Coverage: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, is recommended.
The island’s dependable tourism infrastructure continues to welcome American visitors safely, making Barbados a favourite for beach holidays and luxury getaways.
Cayman Islands: Exercise Normal Precautions, Low Crime and High Comfort
The Cayman Islands also remain a Level 1 destination, reflecting strong local governance, low crime rates, and high-quality medical facilities.
Safety Snapshot: Petty theft is rare but possible in crowded areas.Recommended Practices: Register with STEP, review the Country Security Report, and ensure insurance includes coverage for water-sport accidents or emergency evacuation.
The advisory describes the Cayman Islands as a low-risk, high-comfort Caribbean destination—ideal for family travel and diving enthusiasts alike.
Estonia: Exercise Normal Precautions in Northern Europe’s Digital Hub
Estonia, a Baltic nation renowned for digital innovation and medieval charm, is rated Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions.
Safety Profile: Crime levels are low, and emergency services are efficient.Travel Advice: Visitors are encouraged to carry valid identification at all times and remain alert during festivals or large public gatherings.Health Tips: Check the CDC’s travel health page and maintain appropriate insurance for EU medical facilities.
With its blend of ancient architecture and tech-driven culture, Estonia continues to attract visitors seeking a peaceful yet modern European experience.
Greece: Exercise Normal Precautions Amid Tourism Boom
Greece, currently enjoying record tourism growth, maintains a Level 1 safety rating. The advisory reaffirms that visitors can travel safely while observing routine precautions.
General Safety: Pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy zones like Athens and Santorini; travellers should keep valuables secured.Emergency Plan: Travellers are urged to enrol in STEP and maintain an emergency contact plan.Health Preparedness: Check the CDC’s health guidance on heat-related illnesses during summer travel.
Greece’s government continues to prioritise visitor safety, contributing to its standing as one of Europe’s most trusted holiday destinations.
Dominica: Exercise Normal Precautions Across the Nature Island
Dominica, the lush Caribbean island often called the “Nature Island,” remains a Level 1 travel destination, according to the new advisory.
Regional Note: It forms part of the Eastern Caribbean Country Security Report group.Natural Hazards: The island experiences tropical storms during hurricane season (June–November). Travellers should monitor weather updates.Health and Insurance: Medical facilities are limited in rural areas; evacuation insurance is advised.
Dominica’s untouched rainforests and eco-tourism opportunities remain major draws for responsible travellers.
Additional Guidance for All Travellers
Across all listed destinations, the US Department of State reiterates a set of core recommendations designed to enhance traveller preparedness and response in any emergency:
STEP Enrollment: Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive timely alerts and facilitate embassy contact in emergencies.Health Awareness: Regularly check the CDC’s travel health pages for disease outbreaks, vaccination requirements, and region-specific advisories.Emergency Planning: Prepare a personal contingency plan detailing emergency contacts, embassy addresses, and evacuation procedures.Travel Insurance: Secure comprehensive insurance covering medical care, evacuation, and trip cancellation.Local Laws: Research and respect each country’s regulations—especially regarding medications, photography restrictions, and customs limits.
These general guidelines, combined with country-specific advisories, create a robust framework to keep travellers safe abroad.
Why the New Advisory Matters
The revised advisories reflect the evolving realities of international travel in 2025. From Croatia’s ongoing demining operations to Romania’s seismic awareness, and from Argentina’s localised crime issues to health guidance across the Caribbean, the US aims to keep citizens better informed before departure.
The move underscores how even traditionally safe destinations may present situational risks, such as environmental hazards or regional crime surges. At the same time, it highlights that most countries remain open, welcoming, and secure, provided travellers follow official recommendations.
The new advisory is not intended to discourage international travel but to encourage smart, informed exploration. Destinations like Austria, Greece, and Barbados continue to welcome millions of visitors each year with minimal risk, while countries such as Croatia and Argentina work steadily to address legacy safety issues.
Croatia joins Romania, Argentina, Barbados, Austria, Cayman Islands and more as the United States issues a comprehensive travel advisory to update visitors on new safety measures and regional risks linked to crime, landmines, and natural hazards across popular destinations. The move aims to keep travellers informed and better prepared amid evolving security and health conditions worldwide.
For travellers in 2025, the message is clear: research before you go, stay alert, and enjoy responsibly. Whether wandering through Vienna’s imperial streets, snorkelling in Barbados, exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, or trekking through Romania’s mountains, preparation remains the key to a safe and memorable journey.
