The U.S. State Department has raised its travel warning for Trinidad and Tobago, an island in the Caribbean located northeast of Venezuela, because of a declared state of emergency.

A Level 3 travel advisory has been placed on the island, which advises Americans to reconsider their plans to visit due to “increased risks of terrorism and kidnapping.”

The State Department’s website states, “On December 30, 2024, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago (GOTT) declared a nationwide State of Emergency (SOE) because of ongoing criminal activities that may compromise public safety. On January 13, 2025, Parliament extended this SOE until April 2025.”

During the ongoing SOE, Trinidadian officials have the authority to arrest people upon suspicion of illegal activity and search public and private properties. Bail has also been suspended for those accused of committing a crime.

The State Department issued a Level 3 travel advisory to the island, meaning Americans should reconsider travel, amid “heightened risks of terrorism and kidnapping.” (iStock)

U.S. government employees working in Trinidad and Tobago are barred from traveling to certain areas, including downtown and all beaches after dark.

Among the State Department’s list of travel tips for Americans going to Trinidad and Tobago is advice to buy insurance before traveling, do not “display signs of wealth” like jewelry and beware of online dating scams, among various other recommendations.