Venezuela
Venezuela was one of three countries (Venezuela, Ecuador, and New Granada – which became Colombia) that emerged from the collapse of Gran Colombia in 1830. For most of the first half of the 20th Century, Venezuela was ruled by military strongmen, who were generally benevolent, promoting the oil industry and allowing for some social reforms. Democratically elected governments have held sway since 1959. Hugo Chavez, president since 1999, seeks to implement his “21st Century Socialism,” which purports to alleviate social ills while attacking capitalist globalization and existing democratic institutions. Current concerns include a weakening of democratic institutions, political polarization, a politicized military, drug-related violence along the Colombian border, increasing internal drug consumption, overdependence on the petroleum industry, and irresponsible mining operations that are endangering both the rain forest and indigenous peoples.
Immunizations: Contact your physician or a travel clinic six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication, and advise you on the precautions to take to avoid getting sick.
Travel Insurance: Ingle International provides comprehensive travel insurance for adventure travelers who wish to cover themselves in preparation the unexpected.
Entry/Exit Requirements: To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting.
In many tourist destinations, such as Isla de Margarita and Puerto la Cruz, medical treatment facilities normally provided by public hospitals are often not available. If available, service levels will be well below those offered in industrial countries. Many private clinics are available, but they are considerably more expensive and advance payment may be required. Travelers are strongly advised to obtain adequate levels of supplementary health insurance to meet their potential medical needs.
Emergency medical services and ambulance response are good in metropolitan areas; however vehicles and treatment facilities may lack equipment and supplies. In rural areas, the response time is much longer.
Exercise a High Degree of Caution
The security situation is serious due to increased criminal activities, such as armed robbery and kidnapping. Visitors should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, travel in groups, and remain in tourist areas. There is a serious threat of kidnapping, as well as security concerns related to drug trafficking, at both the Brazilian and Guyanese borders. Security forces in these areas are scarce.Avoid All Travel - Regional Warning
Colombian guerrillas, who frequently operate on both sides of the border, are suspected in several kidnapping cases. Foreigners have been specifically targeted in Amazonas state, near the border with Colombia. Cross-border violence, kidnapping, smuggling, and drug trafficking occur frequently in remote areas, specifically in the states of Zulia, Tachira, Barinas, Bolivar, Apure, and Amazonas.Demonstrations and Political Activities
Ongoing social and political tensions throughout Venezuela frequently lead to demonstrations, roadblocks, and national strikes, causing traffic jams in the capital (especially in the historic center of Plaza Bolivar, where most government institutions are located), in major centers throughout the country, and on main highways. Because of the unpredictable nature of these demonstrations, travelers should monitor local developments, and avoid large gatherings and other public areas where disturbances or violent incidents could occur. You should not attempt to cross blockades, even if they appear unattended. Curfews may also be in effect.It is inadvisable for foreign travelers to participate in political discussions or activities (such as demonstrations) in public, or to appear to take sides on any local issue related to the current political situation. This may result in problems with local authorities, or even in deportation from Venezuela.
Crime
Venezuela has one of the world’s highest crime rates. Petty crime is very frequent, particularly in the central and poorer areas of Caracas, Cumana, Maracaibo, Paraguana, Valencia, and on the islands of Margarita and Los Testigos. In central Caracas, both city streets and the Sabana Grande area should be avoided due to a growing incidence of violent robberies. Pickpockets are active in crowded bus and subway stations. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure, particularly on beaches, in parked vehicles, and in hotel rooms. Do not show signs of affluence or display valuables. Thefts from hotel safes have been reported. Use Automatic Banking Machines (ABMs) during the day only, and choose ABMs in shopping malls or in busy residential areas. Always be aware of your surroundings.Violent crime, including murder and armed robbery, is prevalent throughout the country, including in Avila National Park and tourist resort areas. Violence against foreigners can occur in all regions in Venezuela, both urban and rural.
Incidents of carjackings and kidnappings have increased. Victims are usually forced out of their vehicles at gunpoint or knifepoint, and then robbed of their money, jewelry, and identification. Others have been forced into cars at gunpoint, and are driven out of the city. They may also be taken to withdraw funds at ABMs, and in some cases, are held captive until their families pay a ransom. Injuries, and even death, have occurred when victims do not cooperate. While travelers are not specifically targeted, they should avoid walking or driving in isolated areas, particularly after dark.
Women should exercise caution in dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances, and should be especially careful about accepting rides or invitations. Incidents of drugging, followed by robbery and assault, including sexual assault, have been reported. Acquaintance rape is also a serious problem. In some cases, hotel workers and taxi drivers have been implicated. Anyone who is a victim of a sexual assault should report it immediately to the nearest consulate or embassy. It is also strongly advised to file a report with Venezuelan authorities. Note that no criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint.
Criminals posing as police officers have harassed and extorted tourists. There have also been reports of Venezuelan officials at airports, immigration offices, and police stations imposing excessive charges. If you experience a problem, you should pay the requested fine, ask for the officer’s name, badge number, or patrol car number, and report the incident to your country’s Embassy in Caracas.
There have been incidents in coastal areas and marinas whereby ships have been victims of piracy and armed robbery, some involving a high degree of violence. Small vessels, such as private yachts, should be aware of the risk of attack, and should take the appropriate precautions.
In some areas of Caracas and elsewhere in the country, police presence and response are relatively poor.
Disruption of Services
During major events, such as large demonstrations, local cellular phone services could be interrupted due to a network overload. Other services could also be interrupted.Read Stories
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