Americans traveling to Saint Lucia are facing a new warning from the U.S.State Department after officials raised concerns about violent crime on the Caribbean island.The department recently elevated Saint Lucia's advisory to Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution," adding a new "crime" indicator to the warning.Known for its volcanic Pitons, luxury resorts and tropical beaches, Saint Lucia attracts visitors from around the world each year.US UPDATES TRAVEL WARNING FOR QUAKE-HIT NATION, CITING DISASTER RISKS AND VIOLENT CRIMEThe updated advisory warns that violent crime can occur anywhere on the island and says U.S.
citizens and other foreign visitors have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary and rape."In some cases, U.S.citizens have been killed," the advisory states.Americans are warned to exercise increased caution in Saint Lucia after the State Department shared an alert about violent crime on the Caribbean island.
(Orietta Gaspari)The State Department also noted that violent crime has affected guests staying at tourist resorts and warned that police response times "are not as fast as in the United States."Beyond violent crime, officials said petty theft remains common, particularly in popular tourist areas.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER"Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing," the State Department said in its advisory.Travelers are further warned about overcharging, scams and aggressive vendors in tourist areas, though the advisory notes that many attractions have tourist police available to assist visitors.The revised advisory says violent crime can occur anywhere in Saint Lucia.It notes that U.S.
citizens and other foreign visitors have fallen victim to armed robbery, assault, burglary and rape.(Orietta Gaspari)The State Department recommends staying aware of one's surroundings, avoiding displays of wealth, using caution when walking or driving at night — and not physi...