However, the city of Merida, a major tourist destination in the Andes, is the scene of frequent student demonstrations. Travelers may keep informed of local developments by following the local press, radio and television. They should also consult their local hosts, including U.S. and Venezuelan business contacts, hotels, tour guides, and travel organizers. American citizens traveling or residing in Venezuela are advised to take common-sense precautions and avoid any large gatherings or any other event where crowds have congregated to demonstrate or protest, no matter where they occur. Additional advice about demonstrations may also be obtained from the U.S. Embassy at the telephone numbers listed below.
Most crime is economically motivated.
There have been incidents of rock throwing from highway overpasses bordering the slum neighborhoods in an attempt to force cars to stop and assess damages. Once stopped, the passengers are robbed by waiting accomplices. In a 1999 incident, a U.S. Embassy family member was killed by a rock that shattered the car's windshield. Most criminals are armed with guns or knives and will use force. There have been cases of theft from hotel rooms and safe deposit boxes, and theft of unattended valuables on the beach and from rental cars parked near isolated areas or on city streets.