Travelers are being encouraged to stay vigilant in a tropical paradise.
The United States Department of State reissued a travel advisory for the Maldives, continuing to warn Americans to “exercise increased caution” when heading there. The “Level 2” advisory, which was re-published Oct. 7 with an updated summery, alerts travelers they should be aware of potential terrorism in the island country.
“There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the Maldives,” the State Department warned, adding American travelers should “stay aware of your surroundings” and “avoid demonstrations and crowds.”
The State Department added it was possible attacks may occur around tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, malls, and around local government facilities. And while picturesque and beautiful, the island chain’s large footprint can pose a challenge for first responders.
“Attacks may occur on remote islands,” the official advisory reads. “This can lengthen the response time of authorities.”
Earlier this year, the State Department’s OSAC issued an advisory classifying the capital of Malé as having a “medium” threat level when it comes to terrorism “directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.”
“The Government of Maldives’s counterterrorism efforts concentrate on countering violent extremism and limiting the flow of foreign terrorist fighters,” the advisory noted. “Violent attacks and threats have occurred against members of the local media, political parties, and civil society. In the past, killings and violent attacks have targeted secular bloggers and activists from [the] Maldives.”
Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is made up of more than 1,100 different islands. The country is famous for its breathtaking overwater bungalows, unique hotels, and beautiful beaches. Visiting during the dry season from about November to April will ensure consistently sunny weather and amazing diving conditions, while May to October means fewer crowds.
Travelers who do head to the Maldives are encouraged to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which offers international travelers alerts on current conditions.
The warning comes as countries around the world have also faced security risk concerns. Celebrity Cruises, for example, recently adjusted its schedule to skip a popular port in Haiti. The State Department has issued its highest Level 4 travel warning for the Caribbean country, warning Americans “do not travel” there due to potential violence.
The State Department issues travel advisories based on four levels: “level 1: exercise normal precautions,” “level 2: exercise increased caution,” “level 3: reconsider travel,” and “level 4: do not travel” to a destination. Currently, there are 21 countries and territories classified under a level 4 designation.
