It’s not often we give Spanish lessons here at Travel Off Path, but travelers will most certainly need to learn the phrase “una botella de agua por favor.”
The U.S. State Department has active warnings for popular countries regarding water quality. There’s nothing worse than taking a nice vacation only to get sick from contaminated food, or water, in this case.
Americans went through a travel frenzy this year and it seems that will carry on to 2024. Some of the most popular vacation destinations don’t have clean tap water.
Some vacation spots are fully prepped with filtered water for guests, but it depends on where you go. Your best bet is to stick with bottled water, regardless.
Here is why the U.S. is warning American travelers to avoid tap water in these 5 popular destinations:
Indonesia (Bali)
First off, implying you should ask your server for “una botella de agua por favor” in Indonesia would be bad travel advice. So, let’s hold off on that.
Many locals speak enough English to get by. Otherwise, it’s best to use a translation app or good ol’ fashioned pantomiming. We’ve all played an impromptu game of Charades in our travels, right?
Indonesia is a stunning country in Southeast Asia, but most travelers know it for its famous island – Bali. In fact, it was noted as the best island in all of Asia by travelers.
Hordes of travelers flock here each year to party their pants off and enjoy an astounding cultural getaway nestled among gorgeous beaches.
Like anywhere else, going out to eat is always a fun time on trips. This country just isn’t equipped to ingest tap water.
The U.S. State Dept. advises to specifically request bottled water when ordering.
Cuba
Feel free to use your free Spanish lesson from here on out, starting with the timeless country of Cuba. A Caribbean paradise just a stone’s throw away from Florida, you still have to jump through hoops to be able to visit as an American.
Politics have gotten in the way of making this island Americans’ favorite stomping grounds. Once you’re cleared with the checklist of requirements, you will enter what seems like a time capsule 50 to 60 years ago with vintage cars and historical, vibrant architecture everywhere you turn.
Those looking to relax and enjoy a cocktail may opt for the island’s famous Cuba Libres. However, it’s a risk to ingest the ice cubes and an even bigger risk to down tap water.
It’s best to find out if a filtration system is used or else you may be in for a long night!
Colombia
Colombia is such a diverse destination for travelers with immaculate cities and wondrous natural attractions.
Americans have been flocking to Medellin to work remotely as a digital nomad, but there is far more to explore than this affordable hotspot.
The U.S. advisory did not mention major cities, such as Medellin, Bogota or Cali, as places to avoid tap water.
However, rural areas were highlighted to avoid ice and tap water. Exploring waterfalls and gorgeous beaches are the only water sources you’ll want to remember on your trip.
Dominican Republic
The D.R. is a top 3 favorite destination for U.S. travelers. Punta Cana continues to see an influx of travelers enjoying all-inclusive resorts set along incredible beaches.
Beyond the vacation hotspot of Punta Cana, the major cities of Santiago and Santo Domingo have been trending as well.
No matter the destination, travelers are advised to only drink bottled beverages during their trip as restaurants can sometimes use contaminated tap water to make ice.
Mexico
Mexico is a favorite international destination for Americans to take a vacation. In particular, there is no more popular spot than Cancun.
Unfortunately, such a wonderful country as Mexico is not always safe to ingest water. As one of the best foodie destinations in the world, travelers will have to be extra vigilant with what’s on the table.
Whether Mexico City, Cancun, Los Cabos, or anywhere in between, many restaurants serve ice made of tap water, even in their delicious margaritas.
Resorts are more likely to be safe, but it’s always best to make sure before you end up curled up with a bucket during your vacay.
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