Why travellers are eyeing nation plagued by ‘extreme violence’

• Despite Foreign Office warnings, UK travellers are showing renewed interest in Venezuela, with one in 12 Wanderlust magazine readers expressing readiness to visit.
• Demand is expected to rise following Sir Michael Palin's upcoming TV series on the country, where he highlights its “spectacular” scenery but acknowledges the challenging travel conditions.
• The Foreign Office warns of high murder rates, armed robbery, mugging, and “extreme violence”, while the US State Department advises American citizens to “prepare a will” before visiting.
• Lupine Travel's Venezuela tours have sold out, but the operator cautions about increasing tensions and high detention risks for individuals with US links.
• Sir Michael and travel experts say some of the draws of Venezuela are its “magnificent” mountains, beautiful beaches, exotic wildlife, and the world’s tallest waterfall.

IN FULL

Venezuela high on travellers’ wish-lists despite Foreign Office warnings of ‘armed robbery, mugging, carjacking and burglary’