Updated to reflect change to Travel Advisory Level 3.
Reconsider travel to New Caledonia due to civil unrest and crime.
U.S. citizens should reconsider travel to New Caledonia or consider departing by commercial or other privately available transportation options, in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges following riots related to electoral reform in May 2024. The French Government has taken and/or could take additional measures, including declaring a state of emergency, curfews, restrictions on freedom of movement, ID verification, and increased security inspections. Follow any state of emergency measures imposed in your province.
Protests, demonstrations, tire burning, and roadblocks are frequent, unpredictable, and have turned violent. During civil unrest, commercial transportation may become unavailable without warning for U.S. citizens wishing to depart New Caledonia. The U.S. government is extremely limited in its ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in New Caledonia – assistance on site is available only from local authorities.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to New Caledonia.
If you decide to travel to New Caledonia:
- Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
- Do not attempt to drive through roadblocks.
- Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Formulate departure plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter/X.
- Review the Country Security Report for New Caledonia.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
Updated after periodic review with minor edits. Last updated June 18, 2024.
Exercise increased caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime.
Advisory Summary: Violent crime is a concern in the Dominican Republic despite more police presence in areas often visited by tourists. Do not display wealth and be wary of meeting individuals from online in secluded locations.
If you decide to travel to the Dominican Republic, note that violent crime is a concern throughout the country affecting all residents regardless of nationality, including:
- Robbery
- Homicide
- Sexual assault
Resources available to tourists:
- 911 emergency response system
- Professional tourist police force (POLITUR)
- Private security personnel in resorts
Safety tips:
- Pay attention to your surroundings.
- Do not carry or wear valuable items that will attract attention.
- Be vigilant about where your phone is and avoid using it openly on the street.
- If robbed, hand over your personal belongings without resisting.
- Travel with a partner or group if possible.
- Do not leave food or drinks unattended.
Criminals are rarely caught and prosecuted.
U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad. Use these general tips to stay safe:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Review the Country Security Report for the Dominican Republic.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
Follow the Department of State on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.