US issues new travel warning over crime, unrest and unexploded ordnance
Beach, Sihanoukville, Kampong Som, Cambodia, Southeast Asia. (Photo by: Luca Picciau/REDA/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Americans planning trips to Cambodia are being urged to take extra precautions as the U.S. State Department highlights security and safety concerns in several parts of the country.
Why you should care:
On Sept. 15, the department issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Cambodia, citing crime, civil unrest and unexploded ordnance.
Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia and borders Thailand, Vietnam and Laos.
Although the country is broadly covered by the Level 2 advisory, certain areas have received the State Department’s most serious Level 4 designation, which advises against travel.
The department recommends that Americans avoid areas near the Cambodian-Thai border because of unrest, according to the advisory.
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Travelers are also encouraged to use additional caution in Phnom Penh because of crime.
The provinces of Battambang, Banteay Meanchey, Pursat, Siem Reap, Pailin, Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom face heightened concerns related to unexploded ordnance.
What you can do:
Americans who visit Cambodia are urged not to fight back during a robbery.
The State Department strongly encourages travelers to buy insurance and confirm that their policies cover emergency evacuation, medical expenses and canceled trips.
Visitors should also familiarize themselves with Cambodia’s strict drug laws.
The country enforces a zero-tolerance approach to drug offenses, according to State Department guidance. Possession of even a small amount of an illegal substance can result in arrest and detention.
People convicted of drug-related crimes may receive lengthy prison terms, including life sentences.
Travelers are further advised to be careful when accepting drinks from other people.
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The State Department warns that crimes against tourists can involve beverages that have been tampered with. Visitors should decline drinks from strangers and keep beverages with them at all times.
Fox News Digital contacted the State Department for additional information.
Big picture view:
The advisory follows a series of travel and security warnings issued by U.S. officials for destinations around the globe.
Earlier this month, Fox News Digital reported that the State Department revised its Level 2 travel advisory for Italy, citing terrorism and crime concerns.
Officials urged Americans in Italy to remain vigilant because of the potential for terrorist attacks. They also warned that petty crimes such as purse snatching and pickpocketing are common in busy tourist areas and on public transportation.
Travelers were advised to stay alert, follow local news for developing situations and remain ready to change their plans if conditions shift.
The Source: FOX News contributed to this report. The story is based primarily on a U.S. State Department travel advisory issued Sept. 15, with additional context from related State Department guidance on crime, drug laws, travel insurance and safety precautions. It also includes information previously reported by Fox News Digital and notes that the outlet contacted the department for further comment. This story was reported from Los Angeles.