Seeing your favorite artist onstage has never been more expensive. In the 1960s, a ticket to see The Beatles could cost around $5. In 2024, the average concert ticket in the US was nearly $136. And on the resale market, prices can jump to almost double that, with some Taylor Swift fans paying thousands of dollars for a single seat.
Business Insider spoke with individuals across the live music ecosystem — including Live Nation and Ticketmaster, resale sites like StubHub, musicians, lawyers, government officials, music journalists, and fans — to unravel why concert tickets have become so expensive and why many people believe the system is rigged against ordinary fans.
The Trump administration is launching a 2-year Tech Force program in partnership with major tech companies.
Around 1,000 people will be hired as government employees and placed at various agencies, paying around $130,000 to $195,000.
It's primarily an early-career program, aimed partly at helping participants land a private-sector job.
Young tech talent hoping to land a job in the private sector has a new way in: the public sector.
President Donald Trump's administration announced the launch of the United States Tech Force on Monday, a two-year program that offers participants federal government jobs and eventual recruitment opportunities for private sector roles.
The government is partnering with at least 28 tech companies on the program, including Apple, Amazon Web Services, Anduril, Dell, Box, Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, OpenAI, Palantir, Oracle, Uber, and xAI, among others.
The Office of Personnel Management is spearheading the early-career program in partnership with other agencies. Participants will be placed at various agencies across the government to work on modernization projects and, in part, implement AI, according to the Tech Force website.
Tech Force plans to hire around 1,000 applicants to start, according to the site, and is looking for people "highly skilled in the areas of software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, or technical project management."
Applicants will submit an application, complete a technical assessment, have interviews with agency leaders, and undergo a background test. OPM will do the initial resume review and technical assessment before passing the hiring decisions off to individual agencies, OPM Director Scott Kupor said during a call before the announcement.
Private sector partners can provide training resources and mentorship opportunities, and have committed to considering Tech Force participants for employment after the two years, according to the site. Kupor said on Monday's call that there will also be a speaker series featuring company CEOs. The program, he added, will end with public- and private-sector job fairs.
Companies haven't made any firm hiring commitments, Kupor said on the call.
"It wouldn't be appropriate for us to ask companies to hire people without knowing who those people are," Kupor said. He added that he'll "be certainly disappointed" if the program doesn't lead to hiring by the private-sector partners.
Salaries will likely range from around $130,000 to $195,000, Kupor said. There are no specific degree or experience requirements for the positions, which will be posted on USA Jobs. Those interested are encouraged "to apply as soon as possible" on the site. Kupor said he hopes to get everybody hired by the end of March.
The roles are largely based in Washington, DC, and remote work options will depend on the agency and role, according to the site. They're non-partisan positions and are entirely distinct from the US DOGE Service.
Though the Tech Force is primarily an early-career program, the government is also seeking "experienced engineering managers from private sector partners," the site says. Companies can nominate employees, who will generally be expected to take unpaid leave or otherwise separate from their role to take the two-year position, per the site.
"They will become full-time employees of the government for the time they're here, and therefore be subject to all the various ethics rules," Kupor said. He added that each company will have its own policy, but expects that it will be "easy" for participants to return to their private-sector positions.
Kupor said on the call that the government plans to run the program on an annual basis and that he hopes to expand it in the years to come.
A year into our relationship, my boyfriend and I decided to leave New York and live on the road.
We drove across the country and encountered challenges, including hurricanes and dust storms.
The yearlong trip taught me how to slow down for the first time, and brought us closer as a couple.
I have always struggled with stillness. When I was young, my right leg would bounce uncontrollably, rustling the sheets at night.
I was in high school when I first heard a starting gun: It rang, I moved. I traded Long Island for California; after graduation, I raced back to New York City to write.
There was a life path I felt expected to follow — attend college, enter the workforce, get married, get serious. The contrarian in me tried to fight this by studying poetry, partying, and avoiding serious relationships.
By the final year of my graduate program, I felt accomplished but stuck, with a general malaise toward following the "next steps."
It was amid this coming-of-age anxiety that I met my now-partner on a crowded dance floor in New York City.
At 23, I'd never dated anyone seriously — or, frankly, wanted to — until I laid my eyes on Luke, who would make me feel like all the gates were swinging open.
Within a week of our first meeting, Luke asked me out on a proper date. We met at a dive bar and kept seeing each other, bonding over mob movies, rock bands, and Indian takeout.
Less than a year into our relationship, we decided to leave New York City and live on the road
Celebrating our six-month anniversary, Luke and I were on a road trip to the Carolinas, contemplating our post-graduate options. I'd be graduating from my MFA program in a month, and Luke was deciding whether to go back to school.
"How do you pick a place to live or settle down?" I asked as we crossed into Virginia. "I want to live everywhere."
"We could do that, you know," Luke said. "Just live in Airbnbs or something and not look back."
Luke had lived in New York for six years and said he felt ready for a change of pace. He wanted to see the country, and he knew he wanted to be together.
I've always envied his sense of certainty. Could it be that simple?
Immediately upon our return to New York, we started planning how to make this daydream a reality. First, we sent out job applications for remote positions.
Then, I politely begged my extremely generous mother if I could borrow her car. She works remotely and lives with my two aunts, who each have their own cars, so she agreed to hand us the keys in August.
At this point, we had about four months until we planned to hit the road, full-speed ahead.
From there, the contours of our trip began to take shape. We secured remote work and spent the summer building a financial cushion before hitting the road.
Our plan was simple: leave New York, focus on adding more freedom into our daily lives, and travel for at least a year with no fixed route.
We encountered a lot of challenges, but they brought us closer together
captiontk
Sara Sturek
Friends and family thought we'd lost it. What if we broke up? What about the opportunities we were potentially missing out on in New York?
When I think about it now, I realize how large a leap of faith this decision actually was, especially 10 months into our relationship and in a competitive job market.
Our first few weeks came with a learning curve, but Luke and I learned to work the road trip like a muscle, living with just the essentials, packing up our belongings every few weeks, and taking life one night at a time.
As far as mapping out the trip went, we kept things loose. There were a few places we knew we wanted to visit: Luke had cousins with a beach house in Destin, and I had family friends in New Mexico.
The biggest adjustment for me, though, was learning to roll with uncertainty — hitting the road without a booked stop and trusting that a great experience or local tip would point us in the right direction.
If we loved a place, we'd simply extend our stay on Airbnb. It was that easy.
Over the course of the year, I discovered my own resilience — and the strength of our relationship, too
captionTK
Sara Sturek
In total, we traveled over 16,000 miles, visited 30 states, and toured countless cities.
We walked in a Mardi Gras parade and sledded down dunes at White Sands National Park. We swing danced in Nashville. We stayed in Earthships, condos, and shipping containers. We caught up with old friends and met new ones.
There were challenges we overcame, too. We were driving to our Asheville Airbnb when we learned the extent of Hurricane Helene's destructive path, and had to change cities on a day's notice.
We survived a dust storm in New Mexico that almost drove us off the road, but found some southern comfort in Mesilla.
After a year on the road, Luke and I decided to head back to New York and move in together. Although this is our home base right now, I can't say we'll be here forever — we're already planning our next grand road trip.
Ironically, this road trip was the first time I learned what it truly meant to slow down. That lesson, I discovered, could translate to love. There was no rush to decide "next steps": The starting gun could sound, but I didn't always have to listen.
I've learned I should go when it's time to, and stay when I'm enjoying the here and now. Sometimes, it really is as simple as standing in a field in Montana, andtelling your partner: "You want to go to Los Angeles? We could be there by Tuesday."
Rob Reiner's son was arrested after the death of the Hollywood director and his wife.
Nick Reiner, 32, is being held on $4 million bail, records show.
Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, were found dead in their homes on Sunday.
Rob Reiner's son, Nick Reiner, has been taken into custody by Los Angeles authorities after the legendary director was found dead alongside his wife in their Brentwood home, Business Insider confirmed.
Online records from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department show that the younger 32-year-old Reiner was arrested on Monday and was being held on $4 million bail.
It was not immediately clear what charges he was booked on.
Nick Reiner's parents, Rob and Michelle Reiner, were found dead in their home in Los Angeles on Sunday.
A Los Angeles Police Department representative previously told Business Insider that at 3:38 p.m. on Sunday, the department received a medical aid call to the 200 Block of Chadbourne Avenue in Brentwood, Los Angeles.
Rob Reiner was the director for Hollywood classics like "The Princess Bride" and "When Harry Met Sally." He also directed "Being Charlie," a movie about an addict that he wrote with his son, Nick.
Throughout the 2025 football season, the 36-year-old athlete has worn a mix of standout suits, eye-catching hats, sharp jackets, and cool shades before games.
Some created memorable outfits, while others missed the mark entirely. Here are his best and worst gameday looks of the year.
Travis Kelce chose a questionable outfit near the start of the 2025 NFL season.
David Eulitt/Getty Images
The top half of Kelce's suit looked great. He wore a blue Thom Browne jacket that was tailored perfectly, a matching tie, and a white undershirt.
Unfortunately, he styled the jacket with tight-fitting shorts that reached his thighs. The bottoms were too casual and didn't match his dark dress shoes.
Kelce, who played against the Philadelphia Eagles that day, completed the look with a $1,035 pair of Dita sunglasses.
He wore one of his best looks of the season the following week.
Vera Nieuwenhuis/AP
He arrived for a game against the New York Giants while wearing a blazer, vest, and trousers all in the same burgundy shade.
He also wore black dress boots, a white undershirt, and a matching pocket square. His square sunglasses, which retail for $725, were designed by Tom Ford.
The outfit was sharp, simple, and highlighted his Louis Vuitton luggage.
He opted for a suede set in October, but unfortunately missed the mark.
Gary McCullough/AP
Ahead of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Kelce donned khaki pants, a $2,650 Alfre button-up top from J. Logan Home, a brown suede jacket, and tan boots made from the same soft material.
Most of the outfit worked as a transitional set for fall, especially when paired with his suede duffel bag.
However, the suede newsboy cap Kelce wore dated the look. His overall outfit ended up resembling a costume more than a fashion statement.
Kelce kept things simple for a home game that month, and it worked for him.
Ed Zurga/AP
He wore a $1,690 flannel top from Louis Vuitton, khaki pants, white sneakers, and Saint Laurent sunglasses before his game against the Detroit Lions.
It might not have been the most eye-catching outfit he wore this season, but it was contemporary and the epitome of quiet luxury.
A few tweaks could have improved the dark ensemble he chose for his next game.
Reed Hoffmann/AP
When the Chiefs played the Las Vegas Raiders in October, Kelce entered Arrowhead Stadium wearing skinny black trousers, a striped collared shirt, and a cropped leather jacket.
The top half of his outfit looked good, especially with the help of his square sunglasses.
However, his choice of pants wasn't right. A baggier style would have made the difference, and some shining, silver jewelry could have elevated the overall look.
He made a statement in orange at the end of October.
David Eulitt/Getty Images
Kelce wore Fendi for a game against the Washington Commanders.
His three-piece outfit included orange jeans with frayed hems, a classic white T-shirt, and a denim jacket painted in shades of white and orange.
The outfit was bold and complemented by his tangerine-colored shades. He also wore statement gold necklaces with diamond charms.
Kelce chose a '90s-inspired look at the end of November, but it was forgettable.
Reed Hoffmann/AP
He entered Arrowhead Stadium for a game against the Indianapolis Colts wearing a Nike windbreaker, matching pants, and Air Jordan sneakers.
His accessories — a hat, sunglasses, and watch — stood out and added a stylish element to the look.
Still, the dark color and minimal design of his outfit made it forgettable.
He elevated classic winter pieces for a game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
David Eulitt/Getty Images
Rather than wearing blue jeans and a basic flannel, Kelce walked into Arrowhead Stadium wearing a $1,790 tweed Amiri top, textured cargo pants from Diesel, and a $595 Guest In Residence hoodie.
I became fast friends with Katie in college, but we drifted apart when I got married.
After six years of marriage, I realized I wasn't living a life I loved and got a divorce.
Katie and I decided to move back in together, and now, our adventures feel endless.
"I don't want to go back," said Katie, my best friend of 20 years, from across a café table in Cape Town. A tear slid down her cheek.
We were two single women traveling 8,000 miles from our respective homes — hers a one-bedroom apartment in New York City, and mine a two-story house in Charleston, South Carolina.
It was the last day of a two-week girls' trip and the longest stretch we'd spent together since college.
Now, the reality of returning to a life that would rip us apart again was setting in, and our hearts were breaking simultaneously.
By the last day of this trip, we were not only "us" again, but I was me — the girl free to live any life she wanted. She felt safe breaking the rules and pushing the limits because she knew she had her best friend by her side.
I felt invincible again. So, why did it have to end? Sitting in that sunny café, we decided it didn't.
Our relationship was friendship at first sight
Katie and I became best friends almost immediately.
Liz Regalia
Saying that Katie and I "met" in college feels like a gross understatement. Both in need of a roommate, we were set up by mutual friends who swore we were the perfect fit. They were right.
We became inseparable from the second we stepped into our tiny dorm room as freshmen, and for the next four years, we were a package deal: Liz and Katie. Katie and Liz.
Somehow, we balanced each other perfectly. I was the short blonde, always a bit too eager to break the rules. Katie was the tall brunette who was more methodical when it came to pushing the limits.
Together, we proved to be unstoppable, and our adventures were endless.
After graduation, we made our way to Manhattan. Eventually, I was living with a boyfriend in a cramped but happy studio apartment, and Katie lived across town.
On my 28th birthday, my partner surprised me with a proposal. Blindsided yet in love, I said yes.
Two years ago, I divorced a life that wasn't mine
Once I got married, Katie and I drifted apart.
Liz Regalia
For six years, I did what a "good" wife does: holidays with my husband, trips with my husband.
I even moved states with him, leaving Katie for a house in a small town. It was his dream, not mine.
Some say marriage is like two becoming one, but for me, I was torn into pieces. Not only did I lose myself prioritizing someone else's needs over my own, but I lost my female friendships.
Through the years, I canceled countless plans and declined dozens of invitations for girls' trips. As a result, Katie and I became distant. Soon, she had a serious boyfriend I'd never met and new friends who didn't even know my name.
That's when I began restlessly circling through a cookie-cutter neighborhood I hated, avoiding my home and husband, in what felt like total darkness. Finally, I decided not to return to either.
My husband and I separated, and I spent the end of my 30s in therapy to learn how to honor my own needs. It was not quick, but eventually, I became a friend to myself — and, in turn, the friend I felt Katie deserved.
Standing on my own two feet in the life I wanted, I called my best friend from six states away to say the words that I'd wanted to for so long: "How about we take a girls' trip?"
I learned we're stronger together
Now that we're roommates, our adventures never have to end.
Liz Regalia
Six months later, Katie and I flew to South Africa.
We adventured on safari and up Table Mountain. We sipped wine in vineyards and sat on beautiful beaches.
After two weeks together, it felt as if two decades of friendship had been renewed in ways we never could have imagined.
I realized that somewhere along the way, I'd fallen for the idea that success for a woman is finding someone to marry. Katie had too, likening being unmarried to failure.
It took a divorce for me to realize I already had a partner for life. We could choose to be single and still be supported.
Instead of returning to separate homes, Katie and I hatched a plan to be roommates again. Twenty years after moving into that tiny dorm room, we upgraded to a three-bedroom house big enough to hold all the lessons we'd gathered in the decades between.
Living together, we don't have to wait to take on adventures anymore. Somehow, it feels like they find us around every corner, whether it's an unexpected connection, a new love interest, or simply a chance to laugh.
The world is ours again: Liz and Katie. Katie and Liz.
Russia has armed its Geran-2 drones with heat-seeking missiles.
Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine/Screengrab
Russia has started arming its drones with air-to-air missiles to hunt Ukrainian aircraft.
Ukraine said that these modified Shahed-type drones contain foreign parts, including some from the West.
Foreign parts continue to be found inside Russian weaponry, underscoring the challenge of enforcing sanctions.
A new kind of Russian drone armed with an air-to-air missile is being made using foreign parts, including some sourced from Western countries, Ukraine's military intelligence agency revealed on Monday.
The drone — a modified Geran-2 — was recently spotted in Ukraine carrying a Soviet-era missile, a first for this war. From the Ukrainian assessment, it's the latest Russian weapon to turn up with foreign components despite the sweeping international sanctions and export controls targeting Moscow.
Ukraine's military intelligence agency, the GUR, said that Russia has armed its Geran-2 drones with R-60 air-to-air missiles to fire at helicopters and aircraft providing air defense for Kyiv. Officials and analysts have delivered similar determinations about the purpose of the modification.
"The main purpose of the new development is to create a threat to Ukrainian military and tactical aviation, reducing the effectiveness of its work in intercepting enemy UAVs," the GUR wrote in a translated statement.
The GUR said that the modified drone contains foreign-made parts produced by companies in the US, UK, Germany, Switzerland, China, Japan, and Taiwan. Kyiv has frequently identified components in Russian weaponry sourced from these countries, some of which are among Ukraine's closest partners.
Russia's defense ministry and its US embassy did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the foreign parts assessments.
Ukrainian drone-maker Wild Hornets said its interceptor took down a Russian drone carrying an air-to-air missile.
Wild Hornets/Screengrab via X
Despite global sanctions, Western technology can still find its way into Russian weaponry via civilian markets, middlemen, or countries that sidestep export rules. Ukraine has repeatedly urged the international community to close those gaps and further isolate the Kremlin.
In one attack this fall, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that more than 100,000 foreign-made parts were discovered among 550 drones and missiles that Russia launched, underscoring just how massive the problem continues to be for Kyiv.
Russia's introduction of a new Geran-2 — a one-way attack drone based on the Iranian Shahed-136 — armed with an air-to-air missile is notable, though it is not the first time in this war that drones have received these types of modifications.
Ukraine, for instance, has armed some of its naval drones with surface-to-air missiles, which have been used to shoot down Russian aircraft flying combat air patrols over the Black Sea.
The Shahed-style Geran-2 usually carries an internal warhead that explodes when the drone impacts a target. The R-60 missile — which entered service for Soviet fighter jets in the early 1970s and has a 6-mile range — may force Russia to limit the size of the payload, potentially reducing the drone's effectiveness in exchange for increased survivability.
The GUR said that the missile could be used if Russian operators saw a nearby Ukrainian aircraft or helicopters through cameras mounted on the drone and then ordered a launch. The R-60 features heat-seeking technology that enables it to home in on its target.
The new missile-armed Geran-2 comes as Russia continues to invest heavily in drone operations, including domestic production and the development of new launch sites.
The Caribbean offers hundreds of tourist destinations across its many islands and coasts.
photopixel/Shutterstock
The US State Department issues travel advisories for Caribbean destinations' safety levels.
Travelers should review advisories for risks like crime, disease, and natural disasters.
Some Caribbean countries, such as Haiti and Venezuela, are marked "Do Not Travel."
Planning a Caribbean vacation? The US State Department wants you to know how safe your destination is before you board your flight.
The Caribbean has long been a popular vacation destination thanks to its beautiful natural sights, yearlong tropical weather, and calm turquoise beaches.
While traveling to one of the Caribbean's islands and its coasts in South, Central, and North America, tourists can explore historic sites that document the region's colonial and pre-colonial days, enjoy cultural enrichment during carnivals or local holidays, and indulge in an array of cuisines that combine indigenous, African, and European influences.
The US State Department has issued travel advisories for some countries in the region, advising Americans to exercise caution when visiting. Amid an increased US military presence in the region, travelers may also be wondering if it's wise to travel there.
The agency uses four levels of travel guidance to know what to expect in each country:
Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Level 3: Reconsider travel
Level 4: Do not travel
As of December 12, 21 countries around the world are designated "do not travel," mostly because of ongoing armed conflicts.
In the Caribbean, only Haiti and Venezuela have an advisory Level 4, along with some parts of Mexico, Jamaica, Honduras, Guatemala, and Colombia.
Across the Caribbean — which we have defined widely, including every country with a Caribbean coast in South, Central, and North America — levels of safety and resources can vary, and travelers should be aware of the specific conditions of the country or territory they intend to visit.
We looked at the travel advisories and information for every country in the Caribbean. Here's everything you need to know about your tropical destination before planning your next getaway.
Rebecca Harrington and Michelle Mark contributed to an earlier version of this story.
Anguilla – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
The British territory of Anguilla is one of the lesser-known Caribbean islands, meaning you can enjoy the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches without the crowds.
EQRoy/Shutterstock
While the US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the British territory, it advises travelers to exercise caution when driving, as the roads can be in poor condition. Additionally, it notes that medical facilities on the island fall below US standards.
Antigua and Barbuda – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the popular cruise-ship destination, but it advises travelers on the country information page to be "extremely careful when driving, riding in a vehicle, or crossing roads."
It also notes that medical facilities on the island don't meet US standards, and divers facing decompression illness need to be evacuated from the island as it does not have a hyperbaric chamber.
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be warned that local "indecency statutes" criminalize "consensual same-sex sexual activity between adult men" with a maximum sentence of up to 15 years, according to the US State Department. LGBTQ+ couples married outside the island also do not enjoy spousal rights or privileges when visiting Antigua and Barbuda.
The agency also says that mosquito-borne diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are prevalent in the islands.
Aruba – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
fokke baarssen/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the Dutch island, but warns that "access to quality medical care is limited," and in cases of decompression sickness, divers need medical evacuation from the island as it does not have a decompression chamber.
Mosquito-borne diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are also prevalent in the island, and the CDC recommends the use of "mosquito repellents and insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets."
While crime isn't a particular concern there, theft is the main offense committed against tourists. The department suggests securing personal property in public areas, hotel rooms, and cars.
The Bahamas – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
alarico/Shutterstock
The US State Department advises travelers to the island chain to remain cautious, as violent crimes — like armed robberies and sexual assaults — can "occur anywhere in the Bahamas."
It also notes that a majority of crime occurs in the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama, and warns to stay alert in the "Over the Hill" area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have been reported to have murdered residents.
The department also warns about unsafe, unregulated tourist watercraft, such as boat tours, and the potential of sexual assault by Jet Ski operators. US government employees are prohibited from using Jet Skis and watercraft rented from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise islands.
It also advises travelers to be wary of weather alerts and notes that the island's hurricane season generally runs from June through November.
Barbados – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Darryl Brooks/Shutterstock
The US State Department lists Barbados at Level 1 but warns that "crimes of opportunity" and violent crimes occur occasionally, advising the use of the same personal security measures as in any major US city.
It also notes that travelers should "exercise extra vigilance at night on party cruises and in the downtown area."
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be aware that, while rarely enforced, consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized on the island, and they can be penalized with up to life imprisonment.
Mosquito-borne diseases, such as chikungunya, dengue, and Zika, are also prevalent.
Belize – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of violent crime, including "sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder," which it says "are common even during the day and in tourist areas," and can be gang-related.
Belize City has a travel advisory Level 3, and the agency suggests that US citizens should avoid traveling to the city, which has historically seen much of the country's violent crime in its south side. The area, defined as Haulover Creek Canal and extending south to Fabers Road, "does not overlap with the typical tourism areas," the agency said.
Much of the crime in the city, and in the country, is gang-related, and local police don't have resources to look into serious crimes, so most go "unresolved and unprosecuted," the US State Department wrote.
The department said it also discourages driving at night due to poor road conditions, frequently unavailable road assistance, and unreliable phone reception in remote areas.
Diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and NWS (New World Screwworm) are also prevalent in the country, and medical care, while generally available in urban areas, can be hard to access in rural and remote areas.
The agency also warns that many hotels aren't equipped with carbon monoxide detectors, and that US citizens have died from poisoning from the gas.
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Nancy Pauwels/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the Dutch islands, which it assesses as low-crime areas with responsible police sources and a high level of social control in its small population. The most common crimes are usually "non-violent, financially-motivated, and opportunistic in nature," like pickpocketing and theft of unattended belongings.
US travelers are advised to use caution when driving in the islands, as roads can be "slippery during rainfall," wild animals often cross roads, and in Saba, roads can be steep and have sharp turns.
There is limited access to quality medical care in the islands, and facilities do not always meet US health and service standards.
The CDC also recommends using mosquito repellents and sleeping under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.
British Virgin Islands – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Shutterstock/BlueOrange Studio
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the British territory, but notes that drivers should be attentive on the road as "speeding and reckless driving are fairly common." Nighttime drag racing and livestock crossing are also common.
While the British Virgin Islands don't have particularly high crime, crimes of opportunity and violent crimes occur occasionally, and travelers are advised to use the same personal security measures they would in any major US city.
Diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika have also been reported.
Cayman Islands – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Jo Ann Snover/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the island chain, which is a British territory, and says the islands have "low rates of criminal activity affecting tourists," although crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatchings still happen occasionally.
Zika, chikungunya, and dengue fever are also prevalent, and the CDC recommends the use of insect repellents.
Colombia – Level 3: Reconsider travel
Jon Chica/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of crime, terrorism, unrest, and kidnapping throughout Colombia and asks visitors to reconsider travel to the country. Terrorists operate in some areas, and violent crime is possible, the agency says.
Parts of the country are a Level 4 advisory, with the agency recommending Americans don't travel to Arauca, Cauca (except Popayan); Chocó (except Nuquí); Nariño; and Norte de Santander (except Cucuta) because of crime and terrorism.
The country's border with Venezuela is also at a Level 4 advisory, and the agency advises avoiding the area altogether to prevent accidental crossings into Venezuela, as the border isn't clearly marked. The department says that Americans should not travel to this region "for any reason," since crime, kidnapping, and armed conflict are common in the area.
Even in public and in affluent neighborhoods, well-organized crime can occur, the agency says. Americans are also targeted by terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them, per the State Department.
Dating apps and internet romance scams are also common, and the department advises being cautious when meeting with strangers.
Travelers are advised against hailing taxis on the street, and US government employees are prohibited from doing so, as US citizens have been killed during robberies on hailed street taxis.
The agency also advises against participating in ayahuasca "spiritual cleansing" practices using psychedelic drugs illegal in the US, because "people claiming to be shamans or spiritual practitioners are neither licensed nor regulated," and there are risks of robbery, assault, illness, or death while intoxicated.
Adequate healthcare facilities are available throughout the country; the agency warns that healthcare in rural areas may be below US standards, and tap water is not safe to drink in these areas.
Common diseases include COVID-19, dengue, chikungunya, malaria, Yellow Fever, and Zika. Using mosquito repellents and sleeping under nets is suggested.
Costa Rica – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of widespread petty and violent crime, like armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, affecting tourists, and recommends increased caution when traveling to the country. The agency strongly advises against taking public buses due to the threat of pickpocketing.
It also warns of dangerous rip currents in Costa Rica and notes that most beaches lack lifeguards or "warnings about unsafe conditions." In July, "The Cosby Show" star Malcolm-Jamal Warner drowned while visiting the country.
The agency also advises against participation in spiritual ceremonies or rituals involving hallucinogens like ayahuasca or kambo, which are "not regulated by the Costa Rican Ministry of Health and are illegal in the US." The agency says Americans have been victims of "sexual assault, serious injury, and theft" while intoxicated with the substances, and recommends using "extreme caution" if they choose to participate in such ceremonies.
Some travelers have reported tainted alcohol causing serious health issues, the agency added.
Medical care in San José is "usually good;" the department warns that quality services outside the city may be limited. Tap water is often unsafe to drink in the country.
Diseases like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and malaria are prevalent.
Costa Rica is also prone to a variety of natural disasters as an active earthquake and volcanic zone, with three volcanoes that have become more active in recent years. Tsunamis can also occur after significant earthquakes.
Flash floods and severe landslides are common during the rainy season, from April to October, in the Limon, Puntarenas, and Guanacaste provinces.
Between January and the end of May, wildfires are also common throughout Costa Rica, particularly in Guanacaste and the northern region of the country.
Cuba – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Carnival cruise ship Adonia arrives at the Havana bay, the first cruise liner to sail between the United States and Cuba since Cuba's 1959 revolution, Cuba, May 2, 2016.
REUTERS/Alexandre Meneghini
The US State Department advises that travelers maintain an increased level of caution due to crime and an unreliable power grid. Petty crime, including pickpocketing, purse snatching, and car break-ins, is common, and violent crime like armed robbery, murder, and home invasions is also on the rise, the department said.
US law also prohibits tourist travel to Cuba, and travelers must comply with OFAC licensing requirements, which establish different categories for permitted travel, such as educational activities, humanitarian projects, or visiting family.
Travelers should avoid demonstrations, as peaceful assembly and free speech are not protected, and protests can often trigger government responses. The agency also warns that the Cuban government has detained US citizens for activities that are not criminal in the US.
Scams on dating apps and internet romance schemes are common, it added. Internet and phone communication can also be compromised while visiting the island, as "there is no expectation of privacy in Cuba," per the department, which advises the use of VPNs and avoiding connecting to public WiFi networks.
Roads can be hazardous due to poor lighting, aging vehicles, and unpredictable nighttime conditions, and the department discourages using overcrowded public buses or unregulated taxis.
The agency warns that ambulances "are not present throughout the country and can be unreliable where available," and they're not usually equipped with up-to-date medical equipment. The agency recommends travelers bring basic over-the-counter medication, as shortages are widespread throughout the island.
Air quality can be poor on the island, and tap water is not safe to drink. The agency recommends opting for bottled water, asking for drinks without ice, washing hands often, and avoiding uncooked or undercooked food.
Diseases like dengue, chikungunya, COVID-19, Oropouche, hepatitis A, and traveler's diarrhea are prevalent.
Travelers should also be aware that between May and November, the island is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes.
Curaçao – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Solarisys/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the Dutch territory, but notes that nonviolent crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, are common in areas like beaches, hotel lobbies, and cars.
Instances of violent crime, although not common, often take place in more isolated areas of the island, like remote beaches or nature areas, where thefts and assaults have been reported.
Zika, dengue, and chikungunya are prevalent, and the CDC recommends the use of mosquito repellents and insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.
Dominica – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
Joseph Thomas Photography/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for Dominica, but notes that crimes of opportunity, violent, and drug-related crime occur occasionally.
The department also advises caution when driving, riding in a vehicle, or crossing roads, as roads in the country tend to be in "average to poor condition."
LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that consensual same-sex conduct is illegal on the island, and local laws do not protect against sexual-orientation-based discrimination.
Diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika have been reported on the island.
The agency also warns that medical facilities on the island do not meet US standards, and there is "limited ambulance service."
The US State Department warns of violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault. The agency also says that while the country has its own tourist police force and that resort areas are generally safer, urban areas like Santo Domingo aren't very well-policed, and drugs, weapons, and criminal justice systems are a concern throughout the country.
The agency advises against wearing expensive jewelry and warns of dating app or internet romance scams.
While prostitution under certain circumstances is legal in the country, the agency warns US citizens against hiring prostitutes or escort services, as "disagreements over price and claims of mistreatment" can result in police involvement.
Prevalent diseases include dengue, malaria, and tuberculosis, and "public clinics lack basic resources and supplies," the agency said. It also notes that "many US citizens have suffered serious complications or died during cosmetic or other elective surgeries in the Dominican Republic."
Tap water in many areas is not safe to drink, and the agency suggests requesting bottled water and no ice in drinks.
The country has the highest road-crash-related mortality rate in the world, the agency says, and travelers should drive with extreme caution or consider hiring a professional driver. Shared buses are available, but they do not always meet US safety standards.
Due to security concerns, the agency advises against using unregulated taxis and buses, as well as hailing taxis off the street.
The island is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes between May and November, and flooding often occurs without warning during heavy rainfall. The country is also prone to earthquakes.
The agency also warns of life-threatening currents and advises against swimming alone.
El Salvador – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Kamran Ali/Shutterstock
After years of higher-risk warnings, the US State Department now lists El Salvador at Level 1, citing a decrease in violent crime and gang activity over the past three years.
The US prohibits government employees from traveling between cities or departments at night and from using public buses due to concerns over infrastructure and criminal activity.
Since 2022, El Salvador has been under a "State of Exception" in response to gang violence, allowing local authorities to arrest anyone suspected of being involved in gang activity — including several US and foreign citizens — and suspending "several constitutional rights," like the right to a fair and speedy trial, the agency notes.
While no alerts are active for the country, the agency suggests exercising caution and warns that the "crime threat level in El Salvador is high," citing common crimes like robbery, car theft, and sexual assault. "Most serious crimes in El Salvador are never solved," the department says.
The country has a police force dedicated to tourists in 19 popular destinations, but the agency advises against remote hikes or hiring guides.
The agency warns of the risks of surfing in the country's Pacific Coast, which has made El Salvador a popular surfing destination. The currents "can be dangerous, even for skilled swimmers," the department said, and the country has limited search-and-rescue capabilities.
El Salvador also has severe penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs, which might include THC and CBD products legally sold in the US.
Natural disasters also occur occasionally in the country, which has 21 active volcanoes and experiences frequent earthquakes. Flooding and mudslides are common during the rainy season.
LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that while same-sex sexual relations aren't restricted in the country, there is "widespread discrimination based on sexual orientation," the department said, including by public officials and police, who have been involved in violence against LGBTQ+ individuals.
Quality care is available in San Salvador, but medical care can be limited outside the city, per the agency.
Prevalent diseases include dengue, diarrheal illness, chikungunya, and Zika
French West Indies – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
EWY Media/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the French West Indies, which include the islands of Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy. The agency notes that petty street crime, like purse snatching, occurs, and advises against leaving valuables unattended in public areas or visible in cars.
Other recommendations include avoiding wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash, and keeping doors and windows locked at night.
Chikungunya and dengue are prevalent.
Grenada – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
EQRoy/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the island, but it notes that crimes of opportunity like petty theft and break-ins still occur occasionally, as do violent and drug-related crimes. The agency advises travelers to exercise the level of caution that they would in any major US city.
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be aware that local law "criminalizes consensual same-sex sexual activities between men," with up to 10 years imprisonment, the agency says. Although prosecutions are rare, Grenadian society is considered to be "generally intolerant of same-sex sexual conduct," it noted.
During hurricane season, from June 1 to November 30, travelers are advised to monitor local weather and be prepared for potential threats, including earthquakes and tsunamis, since the island is located in a seismic zone.
Visitors should drive slowly and with caution, as the roads are usually narrow and winding and often lack proper signage, according to the agency.
The department also notes that medical care in Grenada is "below US standards" and that dengue is prevalent.
Guatemala – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of widespread crime, including violent crime like armed robbery, murder, and gang activity, particularly in Guatemala City, Escuintla, Chiquimula, Izabal, and Petén. The agency advises reconsidering travel to the country.
Some areas, including the departments of San Marcos and Huehuetenango, and parts of Guatemala City like Zone 18 and Villa Nueva, have a travel advisory of Level 4: Do Not Travel due to increased crime.
"While tourists are not usually targeted, they can still be victims of opportunistic crime," the agency says, and local police — which have a dedicated force to protect tourists in popular destinations — often lack the resources to respond effectively.
Tourists are advised against wearing expensive jewelry or using cellphones in public. Internet romance and dating app scams are common and can often target US citizens.
Road travel after dark is discouraged due to poor lighting and a high accident risk. Public transportation, especially "chicken buses" and unregulated taxis, can be unsafe, the agency said.
Travelers should also avoid swimming in the Pacific Ocean because the currents and undertow can be dangerously strong, and lifeguards aren't always available.
LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that discrimination and harassment are common throughout the country.
Medical care in Guatemala City is generally adequate, but facilities elsewhere often lack basic supplies.
Diseases like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and COVID-19 are present, and tap water is unsafe to drink, including ice made from non-potable water.
Air pollution is also an issue in major cities, and travelers should monitor for altitude effects in high-elevation areas.
Haiti – Level 4: Do Not Travel
The State Department advises travelers to avoid traveling to Haiti.
imageBROKER.com/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of extreme crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, terrorist activity, and a total collapse of public security in the country. The agency emphasizes that it cannot provide emergency assistance in Haiti and advises against all travel to the country. US airlines are not operating commercial flights to Haiti due to the substantial threats to travelers.
In late August, the country declared a state of emergency across many districts due to gang violence. Kidnapping is widespread and often violent, with US citizens among the victims, the department said.
Demonstrations and roadblocks are frequent and unpredictable, and clashes between gangs and security forces routinely involve gunfire. The agency notes that stray bullets present a significant threat to visitors, even if they aren't involved with armed conflict.
Road conditions are dangerous, traffic is chaotic, and public transportation is unsafe, according to the agency.
LGBTQ+ individuals and women may face targeted harassment or violence, and consular support is unavailable.
The State Department warns that medical facilities lack basic supplies, emergency response is nearly nonexistent, and essential resources, including water, fuel, and electricity, are severely limited Diseases like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, cholera, and Zika are prevalent.
The country is also vulnerable to hurricanes during the season that runs from June 1 to November 30, during which roads often become impassable.
Honduras – Level 3: Reconsider travel
The US advises travelers to reconsider traveling to Honduras.
Dietwal/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and gang activity, throughout Honduras. The easternmost department, Gracias a Dios, is a Level 4: Do Not Travel area due to narcotics trafficking, limited security presence, and poor infrastructure.
Since 2022, the country has been under a state of national emergency in response to the high crime rate.
Tourist areas like the Bay Islands and Copan Ruins "have a higher concentration of law enforcement resources," the agency said, but drug-related crimes remain a concern in the region.
Road conditions are hazardous, especially at night, with poor lighting, landslides, and frequent accidents. Carjackings occur along major highways, and the agency warns against using public transportation or hailing taxis on the street.
While no laws prohibit same-sex relationships, LGBTQ+ travelers often face discrimination, and crimes committed against LGBTQ+ individuals often go unpunished. The agency advises LGBTQ+ travelers to "exercise caution, especially when expressing affection in public."
Medical facilities "often do not meet US standards," the agency said. Dengue is widespread, and diseases like chikungunya, malaria, and Zika are prevalent. Tap water is not safe to drink, and air pollution can reach hazardous levels during the dry season.
The country is also vulnerable to hurricanes, heavy rain, and flooding, especially between June and November.
Jamaica – Level 3: Reconsider travel
Romaine W/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of widespread violent crime — including armed robbery, sexual assault, and homicide — and notes that serious incidents can occur even inside gated resorts. Some neighborhoods in Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and other parishes are at an advisory of Level 4: Do Not Travel due to what the agency calls persistent gang violence.
It also notes that the country has one of the highest homicide rates in the Western Hemisphere. Tourists tend to experience a lower rate of crime than in other parts of the country, the agency said.
Hurricane Melissa also caused significant damage in late 2025, and the agency advises confirming transportation and lodging availability before travel, as services may remain disrupted, especially in areas such as Black River and Montego Bay, which were heavily impacted by the storm.
Travelers should avoid secluded areas, including at resorts, remain in groups, and avoid displaying valuables.
Road conditions vary widely throughout the island; nighttime driving is hazardous, and carjackings and accidents are common.
Emergency response can be slow, and medical care outside major cities is limited, according to the agency.
Scams are common here, the agency says, warning that LGBTQ+ individuals may face targeted violence, including assaults arranged through dating apps.
LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that local law specifically prohibits "any kind of physical intimacy between persons of the same sex, in public or in private," with up to 10 years in prison, and "consensual same-sex sexual conduct between men" is also outlawed. LGBTQ+ individuals often face discrimination and assault, the agency said.
Diseases like COVID-19, dengue, chikungunya, and HIV are present, and the CDC recommends the use of mosquito repellents and sleeping under insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.
Mexico – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Brester Irina/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, and cartel activity throughout Mexico.
States like Colima, Guerrero, Michoacán, Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas are Level 4: Do Not Travel due to extreme violence, roadblocks, and targeted killings. The agency particularly warns against travel to Tamaulipas due to the threat of organized crime activity and kidnapping.
Other states are Level 3: Reconsider Travel, and only the Gulf states of Campeche and Yucatán are Level 1: Exercise normal precautions.
Crimes like armed robbery, extortion, and sexual assault occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas, and the agency notes that "emergency services may be limited or unavailable in remote or rural areas." Travelers should avoid hailing taxis on the street, use only vetted transport, and avoid intercity driving at night due to risks of crime and unreliable road conditions.
Scams, including virtual kidnappings, romance schemes, banking fraud, and timeshare scams, are also common.
The agency also notes that carbon monoxide incidents have resulted in tourist deaths since many hotels and vacation rentals lack detectors.
Mexico is also prone to earthquakes and tsunamis, and hurricanes and tropical storms often take place between May and November.
Medical care is generally good in major cities, but complications are frequent in travelers seeking elective procedures, such as plastic surgery.
Diseases like dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and Zika are present in the country.
Nicaragua – Level 3: Reconsider travel
The US advises tourists to reconsider travel to Nicaragua.
Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of "arbitrary enforcement of laws, risk of wrongful detention, civil unrest, limited healthcare availability," and crime. The government, which the agency describes as authoritarian, has detained US citizens, restricted entry or exit without explanation, confiscated property, and monitored digital activity.
Violent crime, including sexual assault and armed robbery, occurs, and roadblocks and paramilitary groups can restrict movement and extort travelers. The Nicaraguan government may also monitor social media accounts for content that is "critical of the government, controversial, or that might involve illegal activity," the agency said.
Beaches can have dangerous currents and undertows, and hiking around volcanoes requires hiring local guides by law. Travelers should maintain emergency supplies, avoid nighttime travel, and only use licensed taxis recommended by trusted sources like airports and hotels due to unsafe conditions on public transportation.
Medical care outside Managua is extremely limited, and even the capital's facilities may lack emergency resources. Ambulance services are unreliable, tap water is not potable, and diseases like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, typhoid fever, pneumonia, leptospirosis, and rabies are present.
The country is prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, landslides, and volcanic eruptions. Travelers should have emergency plans, as remote locations may lack cellphone coverage.
Montserrat – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
279photo Studio/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the British territory, but notes that petty crimes and violent crimes still occur occasionally. Travelers are advised to use the level of caution they would in any major US city and stay aware of their surroundings, especially when visiting more isolated areas.
Chikungunya and dengue are present on the island.
Saint Kitts and Nevis – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Shutterstock/Sean Pavone
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the islands, but notes that petty theft, break-ins, and incidents of violent and drug-related crime occasionally occur. Travelers should use the personal security measures they would in any major US city.
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be aware that local law criminalizes "consensual same-sex activity between men" with a penalty of up to 10 years in prison, although enforcement of this law is relaxed, according to the agency. While the law "does not prohibit sexual activity between women," it also doesn't prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika have been reported in the islands.
Saint Lucia – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
fivetonine/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the island, but notes that crimes of opportunity, violent and drug-related crimes occur occasionally, and suggests using the same level of caution as in any major US city.
The department also notes that medical facilities in the island "do not meet US standards," and that major roads are in "average to poor condition," so travelers should "be extremely careful when driving."
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be aware that local law criminalizes "consensual same-sex sexual activity" with penalties of up to 10 years in prison, and there is no legislation protecting people from "discrimination based on sexual orientation," per the agency.
Chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are present.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Getty Images/DeAgostini
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the island chain, but notes that it can be vulnerable to natural disasters.
Located on the north of Saint Vincent, La Soufriere is an active volcano that the agency says "poses a constant threat." In mid-April 2021, it erupted nearly every day, forcing nearby communities to evacuate.
Earthquakes, which are also often associated with volcanic activity, can occur "at any time," the agency said. The islands can be impacted by hurricanes and storms between May and November.
The department also notes that medical facilities fall below US standards, and that since there isn't a hyperbaric chamber on the islands, divers suffering decompression illness require evacuation.
LGBTQ+ travelers should also be aware that local law criminalizes "consensual same-sex sexual activity" with sentences of up to 10 years in prison, and there is no legislation protecting people from "discrimination based on sexual orientation," the agency said.
Diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are present.
Sint Maarten – Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
Sean Pavone/Shutterstock
The US State Department doesn't have any alerts set for the Netherlands territory. Sint Maarten shares an island with Saint Martin, which is part of the French West Indies.
The agency warns travelers against attempting to experience the "jet blast of approaching and departing aircraft" at the island's Maho Beach, adjacent to the Princess Juliana International Airport. The blast "can result in serious injury or death," per the department.
Crimes of opportunity, such as pickpocketing or petty theft, can also happen, and the department advises against leaving belongings unattended.
The State Department also warns that "access to quality medical care is limited" on the island, and facilities may not always meet US standards.
Diseases like chikungunya, dengue, and Zika are prevalent.
Trinidad and Tobago – Level 3: Reconsider travel
The US advises travelers to reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tobago.
Leonid Andronov/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of violent crime, terrorism, and kidnapping in Trinidad and Tobago, particularly in parts of Port of Spain. Violent crimes, including murder, assault, robbery, sexual assault, and home invasion, are common, and gang activity is widespread; a significant portion of violent crime is gang-related.
There is also a risk of terrorist violence targeting tourist locations, hotels, restaurants, parks, and airports, among others, the agency said.
The agency notes that criminals have used dating apps and social media to lure victims to assaults or robberies, and tourists have been targeted at beaches, waterfalls, and rental homes, especially in Tobago. The agency notes that tourists are particularly vulnerable to pickpocketing and armed assault, which often increases before and during holiday periods.
Tides and undercurrents can be dangerous, and the agency advises against entering the water at unmarked and unpatrolled beaches.
LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that "consensual same-sex sexual activity" remains criminalized with a penalty of two to five years in prison, although the law is not being enforced. Targeted violence against LGBTQ+ individuals is also common.
Medical facilities often lack basic resources, ambulance services are limited, and diseases like dengue, chikungunya, Zika, yellow fever, and COVID-19 are present in the island. The CDC recommends the use of mosquito repellents and insecticide-impregnated mosquito nets.
Tap water is not potable, and travelers' diarrhea is a concern throughout the country.
Turks and Caicos Islands – Level 2: Exercise increased caution
Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of crime throughout British territory, particularly on Providenciales, where it says police resources may be limited.
Crimes of opportunity, including theft, burglary, and car break-ins, and occasional violent incidents occur. The agency advises US citizens to exercise the level of caution they would in any major US city.
Visitors should avoid walking alone at night, secure valuables, and use only clearly marked taxis.
The islands are also vulnerable to hurricanes from June through November.
Medical care can handle non-life-threatening issues, but serious injuries often require air evacuation.
Venezuela – Level 4: Do not travel
The State Department urges US citizens to avoid traveling to Venezuela.
Alejandro Solo/Shutterstock
The US State Department warns of wrongful detention, kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and extremely poor health infrastructure, and advises all US citizens and permanent residents to leave the country and not travel to Venezuela "for any reason." The US Embassy in Caracas has been suspended since 2019 and is unable to provide consular or emergency assistance anywhere in the country.
"Security forces have arbitrarily detained US citizens for up to five years without respect for due process," the agency said, and former detainees have reported torture and inhumane treatment.
The Venezuelan government has responded to reports from international organizations documenting arbitrary detention, inhumane conditions, and torture in the country's prisons, calling them "interventionist." The government has called allegations of due process and human rights violations "irresponsible, biased, and deeply polarized," as reported by CNN.
Violent crime, including homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking, is pervasive in the country, the US state department said, and criminal gangs and Colombian terrorist groups operate openly, especially in border regions. Political rallies occur often and often turn violent as police and security forces use tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against participants.
Terrorist groups often target places frequented by tourists, like hotels and restaurants, shopping centers, and public transportation.
Shortages of gasoline, electricity, food, medicine, and medical supplies are widespread, and public hospitals lack basic resources like water, medications, and staff. Even private facilities are strained, and medical evacuation is difficult and expensive.Those who decide to disregard the advisory and travel to Venezuela are advised to prepare a will, consider hiring professional security during their stay, and develop communication plans with family in case of kidnapping or detention, the State Department said.
The agency emphasizes that there is "no safe way to travel to Venezuela," and notes that the area within 50 miles of the entire Venezuela-Colombia border is "extremely dangerous."
The agency advises against using public transport and driving defensively on the roads, which are often poorly marked. Traffic jams in Caracas are often exploited by armed motorcycle gangs to rob drivers.
Internet scams, like romance schemes and relative targeting, are common in the country.
Tap water is unsafe to drink even in major cities, and shortages in running water are frequent. Diseases like dengue, Zika, chikungunya, malaria, Chagas disease, measles, travelers' diarrhea, and other infectious illnesses are prevalent.
The Whole Foods bakery section was pretty well-stocked when I visited.
Molly Allen
I'm a professional baker, and I tried 10 different desserts from Whole Foods' bakery section.
I was really impressed by both the chain's tres leches and chocolate-eruption cakes.
I felt the brownies and macarons were disappointing, and the berry Chantilly cake was just OK.
Whole Foods is known for its quality food and a wide selection of specialty, natural, and organic ingredients.
Its salad bar and hot buffet are great for lunch, but it also has a large bakery section with items as varied as breakfast pastries and decorated cakes. Its cult-favorite berry Chantilly cake even went viral when the chain tried to change its recipe.
As a professional baker, recipe developer, and former bakery owner, I always prefer home-baked desserts, but I recognize that sometimes you need a quick fix or an easy pick-up-and-go treat for a special occasion.
So, I shopped for a range of treats from my nearest Whole Foods store to see what's really worth buying.
The berry Chantilly cake was on display in the bakery case.
Chantilly cake
Molly Allen
First, I tried the beloved berry Chantilly cake.
This treat has had a longtime cult following and is probably the most popular bakery item at Whole Foods.
According to its ingredients list, it consists of vanilla cake, Chantilly icing and frosting, cream cheese, mascarpone cheese, raspberry syrup and puree, and a mixture of fresh berries — including strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
I got a 6-inch round of it for $30.
I don't think the cake lives up to its hype.
The Chantilly cake had berries inside of it, too.
Molly Allen
I've tried this cake before, and now for a second time, I still don't feel like it lives up to the hype.
Is it better than many other grocery-store-bakery cakes? Yes. It's also wonderful that there's real, fresh fruit in the cake. But I was still longing for something a bit more for it to live up to its fame.
The cake layers were pretty dry, but the addition of the smooth Chantilly cream helps to make up for that. Though the ingredients list mentions raspberry syrup and puree, I couldn't seem to taste or find any of it.
A few berries were added to the layers, with a thin layer of cream between each. Before owning my own bakery, I was a grocery-store cake decorator, and I can certainly understand how tricky these layers would be to stack with chunks of fresh fruit.
Overall, the flavor is excellent, without the cake being too sweet — I just wish the texture of the actual cake layers were a bit more moist.
The store had New York cheesecake in rounds and slices.
The cheesecake slice came in a clamshell package.
Molly Allen
Whole Foods sells whole New York cheesecakes in its bakery case, but individual slices are also available in the cold case.
I grabbed a slice for $5.
Every bite of this cheesecake was very rich.
The slice of cheesecake
Molly Allen
To me, a good cheesecake should have a flavorful, textured crust balanced by a smooth, rich filling.
This cheesecake slice was almost there but had a few shortcomings. The crust was soggy and reminded me of a sugar cookie. I'm a graham-cracker-crust fan, so this was a bit of a drawback for me.
The texture of the cheesecake filling was wonderfully smooth and rich, and the flavor wasn't too sweet, but it was pretty overwhelming. It had a very robust cheese flavor, and I wished for a bit more balance.
I tried only one bite because I found it too overpowering, but I could see it being an excellent choice paired with a fruit sauce or fresh berries.
I was told the chocolate-eruption cake is a crowd favorite.
Molly Allen
A store employee told me the chocolate-eruption cake is another customer-favorite dessert (alongside the berry Chantilly cake, of course).
I had a 6-inch cake boxed up from the bakery display cake for $27.
This cake delivered on excellent chocolate flavor.
Molly Allen
I'm still thinking of this chocolate cake, which means it was a top winner for me.
The cake itself was stunning, with a ganache drip, piped details, and chocolate curls to spruce it up even further. The three layers of chocolate cake were wonderfully moist and tender — and pairing them with a chocolate-mousse filling made it even better.
As the name suggests, it was incredibly chocolaty, but it wasn't too rich. It was well-balanced for a chocolate lover to enjoy every bite.
I was intrigued by the tres leches cake.
Molly Allen
Packaged up and ready to grab out of the cold case, the family pack of tres leches cake looked quite unassuming.
The plain-looking piece cost me $14.
This was easily my favorite dessert.
Molly Allen
What this dessert lacks in appearance, it certainly makes up for in flavor. Talk about finding a hidden gem!
The simple cake base is soaked in cream and sweetened condensed milk and finished with a whipped topping. The texture was incredible with an excellent, balanced flavor.
Every bite contained subtle notes of coconut and caramel that were neither too sweet nor overpowering.
It's perfect on its own, but there's certainly room to dress it up at home if you plan to serve it for a special occasion. A few sliced strawberries on top will go a long way.
Sampling a chocolate-chunk cookie was a must.
Molly Allen
There are plenty of cookie options in the Whole Foods bakery, but I chose something classic with a slightly elevated twist.
I picked up a pack of four brown-butter chocolate-chunk cookies for $7.50
These are excellent for curbing a craving.
Molly Allen
Perfectly chewy and packed with flavor is the best way to describe these tasty cookies. I loved that they had chocolate chunks rather than chips — and there were plenty of them!
Thanks to the brown butter and vanilla extract, the flavor of this cookie was slightly enhanced compared with a typical chocolate-chip cookie.
Overall, it was excellent in every bite.
There were multiple flavors of macarons to choose from.
Molly Allen
I found several flavors of Parisian macarons in the bakery display case. I chose one vanilla, one chocolate, and one salted caramel.
Each macaron was $2.
The texture of the macarons was disappointing.
Molly Allen
I will always get macarons if they're offered at a bakery. I'm a forever fan, and I had high hopes for these offerings.
I tried three different flavors, and though each tasted decent (especially salted caramel), their textures were a bit off.
The interiors of the macarons were chewy, but the exteriors were far too crunchy and dry for me.
Whole Foods had individually wrapped brownies and packs of them.
Molly Allen
Brownies are a classic, and every bakery should offer a great version of this treat.
Whole Foods sells brownies in packs of four, or you can grab individually wrapped ones. I paid $2.75 each.
The brownies fell flat for me.
Molly Allen
It's hard for me to believe that a grocery-store bakery would produce a lackluster brownie, but I think Whole Foods has.
The top of the brownie was surprisingly dry and crackly, yet underneath, it had a wonderful cakey-meets-fudgy balance.
Unfortunately, the dry top detracted from that.
In terms of flavor, I expected a wonderfully balanced, chocolaty brownie — but I thought it was relatively bland and disappointing.
I was surprised by the numerous pie flavors available at Whole Foods.
Molly Allen
The Whole Foods bakery had several flavors of pie, including pecan, four-berry, and apple.
To get a taste for the crust and fruit filling, I chose a 9-inch cherry pie for $15.
This was a decent pie for the price point.
Molly Allen
Even for seasoned bakers, putting together a homemade pie can feel like a lot of work. For $15, this is a decent option if you aren't up to the task of making your own.
The not-too-sweet flavor was excellent. The crust, however, wasn't one bit flaky or buttery and seemed a bit soggy, as if it had been pulled out of the oven a few minutes too early. Still, I may have just gotten a dud.
Overall, I wished for a better pie crust, but it's a decent option in a pinch.
The shortbread cookies I found were too cute to pass up.
Molly Allen
Among the bakery's cookie selection, I found shortbread shaped like little Scottie dogs that were partially dunked in a chocolate coating.
The cookie four-pack cost me $5.50.
I wished these adorable cookies tasted better.
Molly Allen
I hoped for an adorable cookie that also tasted fantastic, but I ended up disappointed.
These were definitely an impulse buy based on the cute shape and design of the cookie, but biting into one let me down.
The texture was fine, but the flavor was oddly artificial to me. I don't think they tasted balanced or buttery, and the hint of vanilla I was expecting didn't come through.
The tiramisu cake looked beautiful in the display case.
tiramisu cake
Molly Allen
Whole Foods sells tiramisu dessert cups, but there's also a whole tiramisu cake available in the bakery display case.
I got a pretty 6-inch tiramisu cake for $27.
This is a great dessert for a special occasion.
Wholefoods tiramisu cake
Molly Allen
Making tiramisu isn't necessarily difficult, but it requires a few steps. If you want to skip them and buy it premade as a cake, this one from Whole Foods is a worthy option.
The two-layer dessert had terrific flavor thanks to the vanilla cake paired with a creamy, coffee-flavored filling. The top was dressed up nicely with even more piped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder, and chocolate curls.
I think it's a bit pricey for what it is, but a good option if you need to pick up a showstopping dessert for a special occasion.
This story was originally published on November 20, 2024, and most recently updated on December 15, 2025.
Solo travel isn't as fulfilling to me in my 30s as it was in my 20s.
Vaishali Gauba
In my 20s, I could take solo trips on a day's notice, visiting places like the Himalayas.
Now I'm in my 30s. My last solo trip to Vietnam felt lonely, and I struggled to make friends.
I'm no longer chasing the same things I did before, and travel means something different to me now.
When I was 17, I moved from India to the United States for college.
The experience shaped my independence, teaching me how to start conversations, solve problems, and feel confident.
Years later, when I took my first solo trip to the Himalayas in northern India, I was able to put these skills to use again. I made friends, stayed with locals, and tried tons of new experiences — from paragliding to visiting a monastery.
The trip changed my life so much that I continued traveling by myself throughout my 20s, embracing the self-discovery and independence that can come with solo adventures.
I thought I'd always want to travel this way. But, recently, during my first solo trip in my 30s, I felt so unfulfilled that I wanted to go home early.
Turns out, my perspective on solo travel had changed a lot more than I realized.
Now that I'm older, my priorities and preferences have changed
As comfortable as I am with alone time, I missed having someone to share my experiences with.
Vaishali Gauba
In my 20s, I was chasing wanderlust on a budget.
I'd stay in hostels to save money and meet new people. Often, it felt easy to connect with other solo travelers of similar ages, and we'd continue the rest of our trips together.
However, this time, as a 30-year-old visiting Vietnam, my priorities had shifted. I had more money to spend, and I cared more about better views, amenities, and comfort.
Although I enjoy alone time and can eat meals or read a book by myself, it felt boring to do so for so many days — I missed easily connecting with other travelers the way I used to in hostels, even though I relished being able to afford a private room.
I also missed my husband. This was my first solo trip as a wife, and I wanted to share all of my experiences with him. Though we were high-school sweethearts, we didn't get much of a chance to travel together before getting married at 28.
We're both young, adventurous, and busy with our careers — this trip could've been a rare opportunity for us to experience the world together.
Instead, each breathtaking view and delicious meal just made me wish I had someone to share it with.
Travel means something different to me now
Now, I care more about spending quality time with family and friends, and taking time to relax on vacation.
Vaishali Gauba
When I was in my 20s, I loved that solo travel was synonymous with problem-solving, navigating unfamiliar environments, and reflecting among beautiful surroundings.
I remember being stranded in a small town in northern India after my phone had died, and it started raining. I had to figure out how to communicate with locals and stay calm to get back to my hotel.
Learning to stay composed when things don't go as planned has served me well in my 30s, as I've navigated uncertainty in both my work and life.
But although these lessons and skills still matter deeply to me — probably even more as I age — I don't need to create opportunities to experience them.
Whether it's managing finances, navigating social situations, or dealing with work stress, I've had plenty of opportunities to reflect, solve problems, and learn adaptability.
I might still take a solo trip in the future, but it's not my top priority. Now that I'm older, I've realized traveling alone isn't the only way for me to find myself — and that sometimes the best experiences are shared.