Be careful if you plan on visiting these countries
Travel to far-away places is a fantastic way to literally and figuratively broaden your horizons as a student.
As an American student, however, there are a few countries that may not be so warm and welcome. Besides the obviously war-torn countries of the Middle East and the genocidal unstable African countries of Sudan and Somalia, there are a few other nations not worth visiting. Here are some of my personal suggestions:
Colombia
Although renowned for its salsa, world-class beaches, Amazon jungle treks and backpacking tours, Colombia has recently gathered a reputation for narco-terrorist violence and civilian kidnapping for either ransom or use as political bargaining chips.
As a result, U.S. government officials and their families in the country have been advised to only travel from city to city via air and are strongly advised against any night-time travel. Not exactly ideal if you were planning a cross-country bus trip or trying to take in some of Colombia’s vibrant nightlife.
Myanmar (Burma)
The country of Myanmar, or Burma, as the U.S. government still refers to it, has fallen under military rule over the last 45 years. Nevertheless, Myanmar still boasts a thriving ecotourism industry in connection with the country’s beautiful beaches, scuba diving, white water rafting and intense mountain trekking that are undoubtedly appeals to all the thrill seekers out there.
However, in recent weeks the government has responded to the continuing non-violent anti-government protests by Buddhist monks with a much stronger military presence than usual.
More than 3,000 arrests have been made in connection to the peaceful demonstrations, making the social climate of Myanmar much more tense. I imagine Burmese prison isn’t a place anyone would like to spend their free time.
Uzbekistan
If you have a desire to rock climb, or were contemplating getting some first-class dental work done for a fraction of the price, then you may have been considering a trip to Uzbekistan.
Before you go, though, you may want to take into account the numerous acts of terrorism and suicide bombings against targets such as the U.S. embassy in the last few years.
Though there have been no outward signs of aggression toward Americans since May 2005, US citizens often experience harassment from local authorities and residents. Perhaps that root canal will have to remain state-side for the time being.
Zimbabwe
Just seven years ago, Zimbabwe was a haven for wildlife safaris, game hunting, fishing, and family fun. Since 2000, however, President Robert Mugabe has not only forcefully removed white farm owners from their lands, but has also banned any foreign (read: Western) journalists from his country under allegations of misrepresenting the political and social oppression within Zimbabwe’s borders.
Although the exchange rate is in our favor at the moment (30,000 Zim-dollars to $1 USD), I wouldn’t recommend paying this fair country a visit until the food shortages, power blackouts and civil unrest have stopped.
Although I have traveled to places that the U.S. government has recommend I don’t go to (Turkey during controversial election season, Thailand during the military coup, etc.). I would recommend that as an American student, if you attempt to visit any of these beautiful countries, please proceed with caution. You’ll have a better chance of changing the world if you can make it home alive.
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on Tuesday, October 23rd, 2007 at 12:14 am and is filed under Perspectives.
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