The U.S. Just Issued a Travel Advisory to This Stunning Island Destination Citing Crime and Safety Concerns-What to Know

""Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity. This includes pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and petty thefts," the State Department wrote in its advisory. "Petty crime occurs in crowded outdoor shopping areas, beaches, and other tourist spots. It also happens near ATMs." In addition to these petty crimes, the State Department said more serious crimes have been reported, including break-ins, verbal harassment and crimes against women, and even violent crime, including assault, murder, and rape."

""In an effort to keep visitors safe, the State Department encouraged travelers hide overt sign of wealth (think: expensive watches of jewelry), use extra vigilance when walking or driving in the evenings, and generally remain aware of their surroundings."Do not physically resist any robbery attempt," the advisory recommended. "Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.""

Mauritius is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean popular for honeymoons and outdoor activities. The U.S. Department of State issued a Level 2 advisory advising increased caution because of a range of crime concerns. Most crimes against foreigners are opportunistic, including pickpocketing, purse snatchings, and petty theft in crowded shopping areas, beaches, tourist spots, and near ATMs. More serious incidents reported include break-ins, verbal harassment and crimes against women, and violent crimes such as assault, murder, and rape. Travelers are advised to conceal valuables, be extra vigilant at night, avoid resisting robberies, not open hotel doors to unknown visitors, and enroll in STEP for updates and emergency contact. About 1.3 million tourists visited last year, mainly from France, the UK, and Reunion Island, staying about 11 nights on average.

Read at Travel + Leisure