Venezuela travel warning: Smartraveller issues updated advice to Aussies
A fresh warning has been issued for a South American country on the Australian Government’s ‘Do Not Travel’ list.
Smartraveller — the website that issues advice to help Australians travel safely — updated its advice for Venezuela on March 20, saying travellers are at serious risk of falling victim to violent crimes.
“The political and economic situation remains unstable,” the advice stated.
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“There are high levels of violent crime and an ongoing risk of shortages of food, water, medicine and petrol. Foreigners in Venezuela, including dual nationals are at a high risk of arbitrary detention or arrest.”
The safety advice confirmed kidnapping is a serious threat, with those travelling along airport routes at higher risk of falling victim.
The website also warned demonstrations could disrupt travel plans, and affect flights, traffic, and public transportation so those travelling to the area could be stuck without a way out.
Australians in Venezuela are urged to leave as soon as it is safe to do so.
However, in the meantime, tourists should avoid protests or large gatherings, monitor local media for news about unrest, be alert during days of national significance and keep spare supplies of necessities.
There are 23 destinations on Smartraveller’s ‘Do Not Travel’ list.
To check the current advice, visit smartraveller.gov.au.
