What are some of the most dangerous places in the United States? Let the French tell you.
The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has a list of recommendations and warnings for travelers visiting the U.S. — and some of their advice might surprise you or make you laugh.
Tourists are warned that the majority of homicides take place on public roads and are often linked to drug trafficking. French visitors to the U.S. are also told to make small payments in cash instead of using their credit cards — and to never let their credit cards out of their sight — in order to avoid credit card fraud.
There are also some areas where it’s crucial for French tourists to remain vigilant in — or even avoid. Here’s the roughly translated version of some cities to avoid:
- Boston : foot traffic and at night should be avoided in the neighborhoods of Dorchester, Mattapan and Roxbury. French attention must also be drawn to an increase in petty crime, observed especially during major cultural and sporting events and in some tourist areas such as Chinatown, the North End and Fenway.
- New York : be vigilant in tourist places such as Times Square and the Statue of Liberty as well as at airports, train stations, subways, restaurants, museums and some hotels in the West End. Do not go alone in Harlem, the Bronx and Central Park at night.
- Washington: avoid areas northeast and southeast, and the bus and train station “Union Station” at night. In the tourist areas of Georgetown and Dupont Circle, it is best to be vigilant at night. The Anacostia neighborhood is not advisable to day and night.
- Baltimore is considered a dangerous city except downtown.
- Richmond also not visit the city on foot.
- Detroit : The center is not recommended after the close of business.
- Houston : As in all major cities in the United States, it should not leave personal belongings in his car the day and to be vigilant when traveling at night in certain neighborhoods (Downtown, southern and eastern parts of Houston).
- St. Louis : avoid northern area between the airport and the city center, but the shuttle from the airport is safe.
- Los Angeles: large areas should be avoided including areas east, south and southeast as Watts, Inglewood and Florence. Care must be taken in the downtown and tourist areas (Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Long Beach) as well as in most residential neighborhoods Westside where attacks are regularly reported (flights that car thefts in the threat burglaries in hotels and private properties).
Oh, and did we mention the entire state of Florida?
- Florida : attacks against tourists and car, frequent there a few years ago are now rare. For safety’s sake, do not stop outside lit areas, especially if someone at the roadside or car, you are prompted to do so. Report their presence at the first station and the police.
