Places Minnesota Travelers Are Now Being Warned To Avoid Visiting

As winter approaches, a lot of people throughout Minnesota are already planning trips for something a little warmer, or a lot more adventurous.

Whether it's a beach, a desert, or a passport stamp you've never had before, this is the time of year when many of us start booking our escape.

The numbers back that up. Last holiday season, roughly 1.8 million people were expected to travel through Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, with checkpoint screenings up 4% over the year before.

Airport officials noted that the holidays also kick off the winter vacation season, when more flights head to warm and sunny destinations, and more than 50,000 travelers were expected to be screened on one of the busiest days alone.

As for where we're going, Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean have been some of the hottest spots for Minnesotans looking to thaw out, and a Google Trends analysis found Hawaii is our favorite dream getaway.

Trips like these aren't just fun, either. They're generally good for mental health, since getting away can reduce stress, improve mood, and give your mind a well-earned break from daily responsibilities.

However, it's important to plan ahead so the trip stays a positive experience. The first and biggest decision is where you'll go, and if you're looking for a true adventure out of the country, you need to thoroughly research unfamiliar destinations so you don't put yourself in harm's way.

Below is an updated list of destinations you must avoid, which includes specific parts of Mexico.

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The Updated 2026 U.S. Government 'Do Not Travel' List

Traveling to unique, exotic places instead of the usual tourist traps can be quite an adventure. However, it's crucial to research your destination thoroughly.

While every trip comes with some risk, requiring you to mind your surroundings and take some precautions, there are some places you should probably avoid because the risks far outweigh the benefits.

The United States government has a helpful website that lists travel advisories that are in place for countries all over the world, ranking the risk from Level 1 through Level 4.

You should NOT travel there if a country is issued a Level 4 advisory. As of October, 2026, the countries below are on the 'Do Not Travel' list.

There's also an update on Mexico, as specific parts of the country, including tourist areas, are now at Level 4.

Gallery Credit: David Drew

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