US travelers warned to prepare a will if they visit popular vacation spot

The US State Department has escalated its travel warning for an East African nation popular for its wildlife safaris, urging Americans to reconsider visiting amid heightened health concerns and ongoing security threats.The State Department on Monday raised its travel advisory for Kenya from Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution,” to Level 3, “Reconsider Travel.”Health risks and crime were cited among the reasons for the advisory, along with civil unrest, kidnapping, terrorism and traffic safety concerns.“Prepare a will,” the advisory added.“Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones.”Americans are urged to avoid certain neighborhoods in Nairobi and several counties across the country due to risks of crime, kidnapping and terrorism — as well as areas near the Ethiopian border due to unrest.In its broader warning about the country, State Department officials said that violent crime “can occur at any time,” noting that petty crime “is common” throughout Kenya.The advisory also noted that solo travelers should exercise caution, and that some Americans have been sexually assaulted in bars, resorts and hotels.“Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes,” the advisory said.The State Department also warned that Americans frequently fall victim to investment scams involving gold and other high-value commodities, with Kenyan authorities unlikely to help victims recover their losses.“Property disputes are common in Kenya,” added the warning.“Americans who have bought land, churches and businesses have lost their investments or been pushed off the property by locals who claim the land or business.” Morning Report delivers the latest news, videos, photos and more.

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Never miss a story.Medical services in Kenya are limited, particularly in rural areas, with so...