Tourist facilities are widely available. A passport is required. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful. Violent crime is rare.
Most crimes involve theft of personal property in public areas or burglary of vacant residences.
However, travelers, especially those who appear affluent, can become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers. Over the past year, there have been isolated incidents of violence directed against non-European immigrants. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are high, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.