Venezuela has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, but Brits are warned that they should not travel to the country unless essential.
The South American country was once one of the continent’s most prosperous economies before oil prices slumped in 2011 and hyperinflation took hold.
The crisis has resulted in Venezuela becoming one of the world’s worst countries for crime.
The Foreign Office says: “Armed robbery, mugging, carjacking and burglary are all very common and often accompanied by extreme violence.”
However, Daniel Santin from the destination marketing company Inspiring Destinations, said earlier this year that Venezuela remains a great option for tourism.
He said: “Without the support of the travelers in the destination, there’s more and more struggle.
“So traveling to Venezuela will enrich your life, plus enrich people’s life on the ground.
“Safety comes first. We know where to take people. We know the places to avoid.”
The Independent also reported that package holidaymakers are flocking to Venezuela for its beautiful Caribbean beaches as well as its nature.
Blas Fabian of HoverTours told the outlet: “Venezuela is completely open for tourism all around the country.
“We are running an operation from Poland…Now we are also handling people from Spain and Portugal. We are reopening tourism all over Venezuela.”
Cayo de Agua, an island in the eastern Caribbean Sea, is located north of the Venezuelan capital Caracas.
The island’s beaches ranked among the top 50 beaches in the world, as per Wanderlust Magazine.
The Foreign Office says the following regions should be avoided completely if you do visit Venezuela.
Within 80km of the Venezuela-Colombia border: Drug traffickers and armed groups operate in these areas, leading to a risk of kidnapping.
Zulia State: Has regular power cuts, and water shortages, and sees frequent violence.
Within 40km of the Venezuela-Brazil border: Drug trafficking, armed groups and, kidnappings.
