It’s a shocking move when a country tells the world not to visit.
Even some of the most dangerous destinations in the world don’t roll up their welcome mat because they still want tourism.
Mexico, for example, which has multiple cruise ports under a “Level 3: Reconsider travel” and one under a “Level 4: Do not travel” advisory from the U.S. State Department still welcomes American tourists. Cruise ships, for the most part, still make stops in countries with Level 3 warnings.
Related: More tropical cruise ports add new, serious travel warnings
Most major cruise lines, for example, still stop in Roatan, Honduras despite the State Department issuing a Level 3 advisory for the nation on Dec. 10. That advisory does give the cruise lines a bit of an out.
“Violent crime, such as homicide, armed robbery, and kidnapping, remains common. Violent gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, rape, narcotics, and human trafficking, is widespread. Local authorities may lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime incidents. Around resort areas in the Bay Islands, which include Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, there is a concentration of resources, and these areas are better policed,” the State Department shared.
Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruise, Norwegian, and multiple other cruise lines are still calling on Roatan, although it’s highly suggested to stay in the port area and to only take cruise-line sponsored excursions.
Now, another Caribbean destination which surprisingly declared a state of emergency (SOE) late last year has extended that for another 3 months.
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Trinidad and Tobago has multiple cruise ports.
Image source: Pixabay.
Trinidad and Tobago extends state of emergency
Most of the major cruise lines use Port of Spain in Trinidad. Royal Caribbean shared a glowing description of the port on its website.
“Nestled along the calm, blue-green waters of the Gulf of Paria, Port of Spain is a popular starting point for those looking to explore the best of Trinidad. The city has its fair share of marvels, too — it’s home to a centuries-old fortress, gorgeous botanical gardens, and a good number of picturesque churches. And nearby you’ll find plenty of outdoor adventures, from the shaded mangroves and winding silver rivers of the Caroni Wetlands, to the postcard-pretty sweep of shore known as Maracas Beach,” the cruise line posted.
Cruise Mapper shows Princess Cruise Line’s Majestic Princess and Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas calling on Trinidad in February. Those stops could be rescheduled and Royal Caribbean currently shows now new sailings that will call on the port.
Tobago’s Port Scarborough has planned visits from Oceania, Costa, MSC Cruises, and Marella ships in January and February.
Trinidad and Tobago extends state of emergency
“On December 30, 2024, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE) based on continued criminal activity that could endanger public safety. On January 13, 2025, Parliament extended the SOE by three months,” according to the U.S. State Department.
During the SOE, the GOTT has imposed the following measures:
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has the authority to:Arrest individuals on suspicion of involvement in illegal activitiesSearch and enter public and private premises as necessaryBail provisions are suspended for those suspected of committing a crimeMembers of the Defense Force are operating under similar regulations to the TTPSAt this time, no curfew or restrictions on public assemblies are in effect
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The State Department shared a specific warning for American travelers visiting the Caribbean nation.
“U.S. citizens in Trinidad and Tobago should expect an increased police and military presence. As a reminder, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the following areas: Laventille (including Picadilly Street and Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street), Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah and must avoid the following places after dark: Beaches, Downtown Port of Spain, and Fort George,” it shared on its website.
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