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Guinea-Bissau experienced a notable increase in international tourism, reaching 52,400 visitors in 2019, compared to just 5,000 in 2005. This growth marked a significant expansion in the country’s tourism sector over the past 15 years. However, recent travel advisories from the U.S. have led to a significant drop in the number of American tourists visiting the country. These advisories, highlighting civil unrest and crime, have likely deterred many potential visitors despite the previous upward trend in tourism.
The U.S. State Department currently advises caution when traveling to Guinea-Bissau due to ongoing issues of civil unrest and crime. The absence of a permanent U.S. diplomatic presence and modern medical facilities further complicates travel for American tourists. This lack of infrastructure poses challenges and raises concerns about safety and emergency response capabilities.
While specific statistics on U.S. tourists to Guinea-Bissau are not available, it is evident that the country attracts fewer American visitors compared to more popular African destinations. Guinea-Bissau’s small size and limited tourism infrastructure contribute to this trend, making it less appealing to U.S. travelers.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, with a significant decline in international arrivals expected in 2020 compared to the 52,400 recorded in 2019. The pandemic’s impact has further strained the tourism industry in Guinea-Bissau, reducing the already modest number of visitors.
Overall, while there has been growth in tourism in Guinea-Bissau, the country remains a challenging destination for U.S. travelers. The number of American tourists is likely lower than in other African nations, with further declines due to the pandemic and safety concerns. Additional data is needed to quantify U.S. visitor numbers over time.
Travel Advisory: Exercise Caution in Guinea-Bissau
The U.S. State Department advises reconsidering travel to Guinea-Bissau due to ongoing civil unrest and crime. The country has experienced intermittent political instability for decades, with frequent demonstrations that sometimes escalate into violence.
Crime is a prevalent issue, with aggressive vendors, panhandlers, and criminals often targeting foreigners at the Bissau airport and crowded areas such as Bandim Market in the capital. Local police lack the resources to respond quickly to serious criminal incidents, and the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens due to the absence of a U.S. Embassy in Guinea-Bissau.
For those deciding to travel to Guinea-Bissau, it is recommended to:
Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Avoid displaying signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
Travel only during daylight hours.
Monitor local media for breaking news and adjust travel plans accordingly.
Make contingency plans for leaving the country.
Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate location in an emergency.
U.S. citizens traveling abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.
Potential Impact of U.S. Travel Advisory on Guinea-Bissau’s Airports
The U.S. travel advisory for Guinea-Bissau, which highlights concerns over civil unrest and crime, might have affected the operations and perception of the country’s primary airports. Osvaldo Vieira International Airport, also known as Bissau-Bissalanca Airport, serves as the only international gateway for the capital city, Bissau, and the surrounding Metropolitan Region. The advisory could have led to a decrease in the number of U.S. travelers and international flights, potentially impacting the airport’s passenger traffic and economic activity.
Similarly, Bubaque Airport, the only airfield serving the Bijagos Archipelago, might have felt the effects. The advisory’s emphasis on safety concerns may deter tourists from visiting the island town of Bubaque, resulting in reduced flights and tourism activities in the region. The limited facilities and services at Bubaque Airport could further discourage travel, as American tourists prioritize destinations with better infrastructure and security.
Overall, the U.S. travel advisory might have contributed to a decline in passenger numbers and flights at both Osvaldo Vieira International Airport and Bubaque Airport. This situation could affect the tourism industry in Guinea-Bissau and pose challenges for the country’s connectivity and economic growth.
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