US Issues Urgent Safety Alert for Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago, Urging Americans to Follow Seven Game-Changing Travel Checks

Published on May 19, 2025

The US government has issued a strong travel warning for those considering trips to certain Caribbean destinations, focusing particularly on Cuba and Trinidad and Tobago. Rising violent crime, political and economic instability, and other safety risks have prompted these advisories, urging travelers to exercise caution and prepare thoroughly before visiting.

In Cuba, the US Department of State has updated its travel advisory, advising visitors to “exercise heightened caution.” The island currently holds a level two rating on a four-tier travel risk scale, indicating moderate but increasing danger. Tourists face frequent petty crimes like pickpocketing, purse snatching, and vehicle break-ins, which remain widespread across popular tourist areas. More concerning, however, is the rising incidence of violent crimes, including armed robberies and homicides, which have made certain parts of Cuba especially hazardous.

The island’s fragile infrastructure further complicates matters for travelers. Cuba’s electricity grid is notoriously unreliable, with frequent blackouts and inconsistent power supply disrupting communications, safety systems, and daily activities. The US government specifically highlights this unstable electricity network as an added risk, urging visitors to be prepared for such challenges.

To help travelers stay safe in Cuba, the US advisory outlines seven key precautions:

1. Always stay aware of your surroundings to avoid becoming an easy target.
2. Avoid physically resisting any robbery attempts, as this can escalate violence.
3. Do not display expensive items like watches, jewelry, or other valuables that might attract criminals.
4. Keep mobile phones and portable power banks fully charged to maintain communication during power outages.
5. Have flashlights and extra batteries readily accessible for use during blackouts.
6. Stock up on nonperishable food and bottled water to prepare for potential shortages or disruptions.
7. Plan alternative ways to manage any medical needs, considering possible limitations in healthcare availability.

The already difficult travel environment in Cuba is made more complex by longstanding political tensions with the United States. The two countries have experienced decades of strained relations fueled by historical conflicts and sharply divergent political ideologies. A major source of friction is the US trade embargo, which has been in place since 1958. This embargo severely restricts economic, financial, and commercial activities with Cuba, limiting the island’s access to essential goods such as medicine, food, and fuel. These shortages have deepened Cuba’s economic challenges and directly affect both residents and tourists.

Human rights issues also contribute to the strained relationship. The US frequently criticizes Cuba for restricting freedom of speech, peaceful protests, and fair legal processes. Additionally, Cuba has been designated as a state sponsor of terrorism multiple times by the US, further souring diplomatic ties. Immigration policies, including tightened US restrictions and increased deportations of Cuban migrants, add yet another layer of tension. These combined factors have led to a worsening humanitarian crisis in Cuba, with many citizens seeking refuge abroad.

Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago have also come under heightened scrutiny due to escalating violence. Following a nationwide state of emergency declared by the local government on December 30, 2024, in response to surging crime rates, the US elevated its travel advisory for the islands to level three out of four. This signals a high risk for visitors, particularly due to violent crimes such as murder, robbery, assault, home invasions, and kidnappings that have become more frequent.

Certain areas within Trinidad and Tobago are considered especially dangerous. US government employees are prohibited from traveling to places like Laventille, Piccadilly Street, and Downtown Port of Spain, reflecting the severity of the security threats. The advisory also highlights recent kidnappings involving foreign nationals and US citizens, emphasizing the real and ongoing dangers faced by visitors.

Other global tourist spots also face travel warnings but with varying degrees of risk. For example, Bali in Indonesia currently holds a level two advisory, mainly due to threats from terrorism and natural disasters. These differences underscore the importance of understanding each destination’s unique safety landscape.

Travelers planning trips to Cuba or Trinidad and Tobago must exercise extreme caution. Rising violent crime, political instability, and fragile infrastructure are shaping the safety challenges in these Caribbean locations. Staying well-informed of the latest travel advisories and following recommended safety measures are critical steps for any visitor. Adhering to the outlined precautions and avoiding high-risk areas can help reduce dangers, but understanding the broader context and potential hazards is essential before embarking on any journey to these islands.