US State Department issues travel advisory for this seemingly quiet European country

Burned waffles.

The US State Department has upgraded its travel warning for this popular European destination.

On July 23, officials issued a Level 2 advisory urging Americans to “exercise increased caution” in Belgium due to crime, terrorism and unrest.

The agency noted that petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations, and urged visitors to stay aware of their surroundings.

“Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing,” they added.

The advisory notes that backpacks and small bags can be easily stolen, especially if left in the overhead area on the train or at main train stations.

In a similar transit vein, the state department underscored that marijuana and other drugs are illegal in Belgium and bringing drugs into, through, or out of Belgium can lead to serious criminal penalties.

The advisory summary also noted that “there is a risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Belgium.”

In 2023, a terrorist attack in Brussels left two Swedish travelers dead.

In recent years, Belgium has been the target of several attacks — the deadliest being the 2016 attack on Brussels airport and the city’s commuter rail that left 32 people dead.

The latest advisory also advised visitors to be aware of “unrest.”

“Large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services,” states the advisory.

Last month, clashes broke out between protesters and police in Brussels during a demonstration against planned ​education reforms.

During the incident, police deployed tear gas ‌against protesters in the city center, which, according to reports, was the site of vandalized bicycles and signs, broken windows and other debris.

In June, activists from the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, who were detained and subjected to ill-treatment by Israel, staged a protest ahead of the EU leaders’ summit.

Per the advisory, “travelers should avoid demonstrations and crowds, monitor local media for breaking news, be prepared to adjust trip plans, and be aware and alert at all times, especially in tourist spots and when visiting banks or ATMs.”

The reason for the State Department’s escalated warning is not immediately clear.

While the agency routinely reviews and updates its advisory levels, a full change is usually prompted by a surge in violence, a health crisis or other circumstances that significantly alter safety.

On July 28, officials issued a Level 2 Advisory that urges Americans to “exercise increased caution” in the Bahamas due to crime.

The agency warned, “violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, can occur anywhere in The Bahamas.”

Earlier this year, the State Department escalated its advisory for several Mexican states amid an uptick in cartel violence.

The State Department classifies several states in Mexico, including Jalisco and Baja California, as Level 3 – “Reconsider travel” and states such as Sinaloa and Colima, where cartel violence is rampant, as Level 4 – “Do not travel.”

Every country in the world has a ranking within the State Department, ranging from relatively benign Level 1 to definitely dangerous Level 4.

Regardless of destination and risk, the agency recommends travelers enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, a free service that sends email updates and alerts from US embassies and consulates abroad.