While the State Department is tasked with warning American citizens about the dangers they may encounter abroad, its warnings often appear alarmist. They also occasionally declare that certain destinations are safer than previously considered.
El Salvador, a Central American nation bordering Guatemala to the west and Honduras to the east, has been under a Level Three “Reconsider Travel” advisory since last July due to high crime and murder rates in its major cities.
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Here's why El Salvador now has a lower travel advisory (“it's safer for tourists to visit”)
The State Department's four-tier advisory system ranges from Level One, “Exercise normal precautions,” under which one may feel as safe or even safer than at home, to Level Four, “Avoid all travel.” , usually assigned to countries at war or with authoritarian governments.
This week, the government agency downgraded El Salvador's rating again to “Exercise Greater Caution.” By the way, France and Germany are under the same warning due to the risk of terrorism in their capitals.
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“While crime remains a concern in El Salvador, there has been a significant reduction in gang-related activity and associated crime over the past two years,” the updated advisory reads. “This includes drops in violent crime and murders.”
The change also comes amid intense pressure from the El Salvador Congressional Caucus, a US-based advocacy group working to improve ties between the two countries and bring tourism to El Salvador. The group has cited statistics showing that gang crime, particularly in areas frequently visited by tourists, has decreased since current President Nayib Bukele implemented new policies to combat crime.
While this crackdown has drawn the attention of human rights advocates to people who were convicted without trial, the drop in crime in many parts of the country has been notable.
“In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador declared a 'State of Exception' in response to an increase in homicides committed by gangs,” reads the updated State Department note. “The State of Emergency gives authorities the power to arrest anyone suspected of gang activity and suspends several constitutional rights, including normal protections of criminal procedure, such as the right to a speedy and fair trial.”
Related: This is why the State Department warns against traveling to Germany
Safety tips for El Salvador: 'Do not rely solely on web-based mapping applications'
Like other Central American neighbors, El Salvador has a thriving tourism industry that attracts visitors seeking cheaper all-inclusive resorts and natural wonders such as the Santa Ana Volcano and El Boquerón National Park.
For those who do go, the State Department advises being aware of your surroundings and always traveling in groups, especially outside of tourist centers or major metropolitan areas.
“Do not rely solely on web-based mapping applications, which may not reflect the status of local road conditions,” the note reads, while reminding travelers not to hitchhike and, if driving, to take main highways instead of secondary roads.
For those who hike (waterfalls and volcanoes attract many tourists to the country), the advice is to always stay on the trail and within the designated hiking areas established by local national park authorities.
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