Published on: 2025-03-31

Intelligence Report: This Caribbean Island Just Got a Level 3 US Travel Advisory – Travel+Leisure

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 3 travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago, advising travelers to reconsider their plans due to increased crime, kidnapping, and terrorism risks. This advisory follows a surge in violent crime, including assaults, robberies, and shootings, and a declared state of emergency in December. Travelers are advised to exercise heightened caution, particularly in Port of Spain, where government employees are restricted from certain neighborhoods.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The travel advisory for Trinidad and Tobago highlights significant security concerns, including increased gang activity and violence. The advisory specifically warns against travel to certain areas of Port of Spain and advises cruise passengers to remain within secured areas. The situation poses potential risks to tourists and residents alike, with recent incidents involving foreigners and legal permanent residents. The advisory reflects a broader trend of security challenges in the Caribbean region, impacting tourism and economic stability.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The Level 3 advisory poses several strategic risks, including:

• Potential decline in tourism, affecting the local economy reliant on travel and hospitality sectors.
• Increased strain on local law enforcement and emergency services due to heightened security threats.
• Potential negative impact on regional stability, with implications for neighboring Caribbean nations.
• Risks to national security due to potential spillover of criminal activities and terrorism.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Enhance security measures and law enforcement presence in high-risk areas to deter criminal activities.
• Encourage collaboration between local authorities and international agencies to address security challenges.
• Promote awareness and preparedness among travelers through updated advisories and travel insurance options.

Outlook:

Best-case scenario: Improved security measures lead to a reduction in crime, allowing for the lifting of the travel advisory and a recovery in tourism.

Worst-case scenario: Continued escalation of violence and crime results in further travel restrictions and economic downturn.

Most likely outcome: Gradual improvement in security with ongoing advisories and cautious recovery in the tourism sector.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions Evie Carrick as a writer and editor involved in the publication of the source article. No further roles or affiliations are provided.