Published on November 30, 2025
In the final week of November 2025, the U.S. State Department issued several important travel advisories regarding popular vacation spots, highlighting crime surges, violent protests, and travel disruptions. This alert primarily affects Mexico, Costa Rica, Belgium, Italy, and the Philippines—all countries known for attracting large numbers of American tourists. As we approach the busy holiday season, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed about the risks and safety guidelines provided by U.S. embassies in these regions.

Introduction to the Rising Travel Alerts and Safety Risks in Key Vacation Spots

As millions of Americans prepare to travel abroad for the holiday season, the U.S. government has raised concerns about increased crime and violent demonstrations in some of the most popular tourist destinations. These alerts, specifically targeting Mexico, Costa Rica, and European countries like Belgium and Italy, warn travelers to exercise caution and reconsider their plans, especially in high-risk areas.

• Mexico and Costa Rica, both famed for their beach resorts and tropical getaways, are facing rising crime waves, including robberies, carjackings, and violent property crimes.
• Europe is not exempt either, with Belgium, Italy, and the Philippines seeing significant disruptions from labor strikes and anti-government protests, leading to transportation delays, flight cancellations, and the threat of violence in large crowds.

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In response to these developments, U.S. embassies in the affected countries have issued security alerts for travelers, urging them to take extra precautions. Let’s delve deeper into these advisories to understand the specific risks and what travelers can do to ensure their safety during these uncertain times.

Mexico: Crime Surge Targets American Tourists in Popular Destinations

The U.S. State Department has raised its Level 2 advisory for Mexico, urging tourists to “exercise increased caution” due to the escalating crime risks, particularly in popular tourist areas. In late November, the U.S. embassy issued a Security Alert warning travelers about an alarming surge in armed robberies, especially targeting Americans traveling on major highways like Highway 85D in Monterrey and Nuevo León.

• Crime Risks in Tourist Areas: Popular destinations such as San Carlos, Puerto Peñasco, Los Cabos, and Mazatlán have seen an uptick in violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings, and carjackings.
• Crime Tactics: Criminals have employed deceptive tactics, such as using dashboard sirens to impersonate law enforcement and pull over unsuspecting American drivers.
• Winter Travel Guide: As part of the heightened alert, the U.S. embassy also issued a Winter Travel Guide, offering tips to avoid being targeted by criminals and ensuring safe travel within Mexico during the upcoming holiday season.

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Travelers planning to visit Mexico are urged to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and to exercise caution while traveling on public transportation or renting vehicles. The U.S. embassy continues to monitor the situation closely and provide updates on local safety conditions.

Costa Rica: Increasing Property and Financial Crimes Against Foreigners

Similarly, Costa Rica, a well-loved destination for eco-tourism and beach vacations, has also experienced a surge in criminal activity targeting foreign visitors. The U.S. embassy issued a Security Alert on November 25, warning Americans about property crimes, robberies, and financial scams that have become more common in tourist-heavy regions.

• Tourist Areas Targeted: Criminal gangs have been reported to rob foreign tourists at their vacation homes, businesses, and rental properties. In some cases, criminals have forced tourists to withdraw large sums of cash from ATMs or make bank transfers under duress.
• Petty and Violent Crime: Both petty theft and violent crimes, such as armed robbery, sexual assault, and homicide, have been reported in popular tourist regions.
• Precautionary Measures: Visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant, avoid unfamiliar areas at night, and safeguard their belongings at all times. The U.S. embassy also advised travelers to closely follow the travel advisory and stay informed about local safety conditions.

Belgium and Italy: Labor Strikes Disrupt Travel and Public Services

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In Europe, Belgium and Italy are experiencing major disruptions due to labor strikes and mass protests, causing significant travel delays and safety concerns for tourists.

• Belgium: A series of strikes in late November caused severe disruptions to public transportation, particularly train services and flight operations. The U.S. embassy warned of canceled flights, long delays, and crowded airports as unions protested against government policies.
• Italy: Similarly, Rome witnessed a massive protest against the government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, with an estimated 100,000 people gathering in the city center. The protests led to flight cancellations and public transport disruptions, affecting many travelers during peak holiday season.

Travelers in Belgium and Italy are urged to avoid protest areas, remain vigilant in crowded spaces, and keep an eye on local news for updates on strikes and demonstrations.

The Philippines: Anti-Corruption Protests Lead to Travel Chaos

In the Philippines, anti-government protests against corruption led by the Trillion Peso March have created travel chaos, particularly in Manila. The U.S. embassy issued a Demonstration Alert on November 30, advising Americans to avoid protest sites and stay clear of potential clashes.

• Violent Protests: The ongoing anti-corruption protests have resulted in violent clashes, including a riot that led to the death of a protester in September. The protests, which have been expanding across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, are expected to continue through December, potentially affecting major transportation hubs and tourist areas.
• Demonstration Locations: Protests are expected to take place at key monuments, such as the EDSA People Power Monument and Rizal Park, with possible disruptions to local services and tourist activities.

Travelers in the Philippines should monitor local media and avoid areas where protests are occurring, especially near government buildings or public squares.

Conclusion: Travel Safely with Updated Government Alerts

As the holiday season approaches, U.S. travelers heading to Mexico, Costa Rica, Belgium, Italy, and the Philippines should heed the increased travel advisories and take proactive measures to stay safe. Whether navigating crime-prone areas in Mexico and Costa Rica or avoiding protests and travel disruptions in Europe and the Philippines, ensuring your safety requires careful planning and awareness of the current situation.
To stay safe during your travels:

• Monitor local news for updates on security conditions and protests.
• Avoid high-risk areas, particularly during demonstrations or when there are reports of criminal activity.
• Follow guidelines provided by the U.S. embassy or other official sources to ensure your safety throughout your trip.

Stay informed, travel smart, and enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind by following the latest travel advisories and security alerts.

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Tags: Belgium, Costa Rica, Italy, mexico, U.S.

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