For Americans eager to explore the world, the question of safety has never felt more pressing. From the cobblestone streets of Europe to the sun-kissed beaches of Latin America, travelers are weighing their options against a backdrop of global uncertainty. With wars flaring up and political instability making headlines, planning an international adventure has become a careful balancing act—one that demands up-to-date information and a keen sense of risk. The latest advisories from the U.S. Department of State provide a sobering snapshot: while some destinations are opening their arms to visitors, others are putting up red flags that simply can’t be ignored.
On August 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of State issued a stark new travel alert for Afghanistan, raising the alarm for American citizens considering a trip to the region. According to the advisory, Afghanistan is now flagged with a special “D risk indicator,” a designation that signals a high danger of arbitrary detention, wrongful imprisonment, and a host of other serious threats. The warning is clear and urgent: the risks in Afghanistan are not just theoretical—they’re immediate and severe.
This latest alert is more than a routine update; it’s a reflection of a country in deep turmoil. The State Department’s message underscores the dangers facing any American in Afghanistan, including the ever-present threats of terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. With the U.S. embassy in Kabul shuttered since 2021, Americans in the country are effectively on their own, without access to consular assistance or emergency support. The advisory urges all U.S. citizens to reconsider any plans to visit Afghanistan, no matter the reason—be it tourism, business, or humanitarian work.
“The primary concern is the heightened risk of wrongful or arbitrary detention, a threat that has been amplified by ongoing security concerns and political instability in the region,” the State Department emphasized in its announcement, as reported by Travel Off Path. The Taliban’s continued control, the presence of multiple terrorist groups, and widespread violence mean that even well-intentioned travelers face significant peril. The situation is so dire that even aid workers and foreign diplomats have found themselves in dangerous predicaments, sometimes with tragic results.
It’s not just the threat of violence that’s deterring Americans. The lack of infrastructure for foreign nationals—compounded by the closed embassy—means that anyone caught in a crisis has few options for help. The U.S. government’s travel risk alert leaves little room for ambiguity: Afghanistan is simply not a safe destination for American tourists at this time. The message is reinforced by the fact that the Taliban and other factions have detained foreigners for arbitrary reasons, making it perilous even for those on official or humanitarian missions.
In the words of the State Department, “US citizens are at greater risk of being detained by the Taliban or other factions, even if they are in Afghanistan for business or humanitarian efforts.” The advisory doesn’t mince words: the potential consequences of visiting Afghanistan right now far outweigh any cultural or historical experiences the country might offer. While Afghanistan’s rich heritage and storied past might tempt some adventurous souls, the reality on the ground is fraught with danger.
For the broader tourism industry in Afghanistan, the implications are grim. The country has struggled for years to rebuild its tourism sector, and fresh warnings from the U.S. government only add to the mounting challenges. With its “high-risk” label, Afghanistan is likely to see even fewer foreign visitors, deepening the isolation that has come to define its recent history. Americans, in particular, are being advised to steer clear, with the State Department providing regular updates to keep would-be travelers informed of the ever-shifting risks.
But not all international destinations are off-limits. In fact, the U.S. Department of State has also highlighted several places where Americans can travel with far greater peace of mind. On August 19, 2025, Travel Off Path reported on the four safest destinations in Latin America for U.S. travelers this fall—each of them earning the coveted Level 1 safety designation, the lowest risk category available.
Leading the pack is Yucatán, Mexico, a region that includes the vibrant city of Mérida, the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá, and the charming town of Valladolid. Unlike most Mexican states, which are saddled with Level 2, 3, or even 4 advisories, Yucatán stands out for its “no heightened security risk” status. Officials in the region have taken a zero-tolerance approach to crime, and their efforts appear to be paying off. “For years, Yucatecan officials have taken a tough stance on crime, adopting a low-tolerance approach toward bandits operating in the area,” Travel Off Path noted. The result? A destination where Americans can feel genuinely safe exploring local culture and history.
Not far behind is Campeche, Mexico’s lesser-known neighbor to the south. Like Yucatán, Campeche enjoys a Level 1 safety rating, thanks in part to its proactive crime prevention measures and its distance from major trafficking routes. The state’s colonial gems—such as San Francisco de Campeche, Hecelchakán, and Tenabo—are largely untouched by violent crime, making them attractive options for travelers seeking a more tranquil Mexican experience.
Argentina, too, has earned the State Department’s Level 1 badge, making it the only country in South America to do so. The birthplace of tango and asado, Argentina is often dubbed an “extension of Western Europe in the New World.” Its capital, Buenos Aires, boasts stately Haussmann-style architecture and an Old World ambiance, but it’s the country’s lower levels of organized crime and violence that truly set it apart. As Travel Off Path points out, “Compared to Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, and the like, there’s no denying Argentina is in a much better spot.” While petty crime like pickpocketing remains a concern, common sense precautions go a long way.
Perhaps the most remarkable turnaround story is El Salvador. Once plagued by one of the world’s highest murder rates, the country has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Under President Nayib Bukele’s controversial but effective crackdown on gangs, El Salvador’s murder rate has plummeted from 38 per 100,000 residents in 2019 to just 1.9 in 2024. “It’s now officially safer than both Costa Rica and Panama, two countries that have historically been regarded as the safest in Central America,” Travel Off Path reported. The State Department’s Level 1 rating for El Salvador is a testament to the country’s progress—and a sign that American travelers have more options than ever for safe, enriching journeys abroad.
For U.S. tourists eager to see the world, the message from the State Department is twofold: stay vigilant, do your homework, and choose your destinations wisely. While some places remain fraught with danger, others are rolling out the welcome mat—offering not only safety, but unforgettable experiences along the way.