Messages for U.S. Citizens: Honduran Labor Day (April 30, 2012)

April 30, 2012

The U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa alerts U.S.  citizens residing in and traveling to Honduras that various groups are planning a series of demonstrations on Tuesday, May 1 in honor of Honduran Labor Day.  These demonstrations could involve thousands of demonstrators in larger metropolitan areas such as Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula.  Protesters may block roads within and between cities and attempt to interrupt normal business.  The Embassy will be closed on May 1 for Honduran Labor Day, as previously scheduled.

If the demonstrations occur, the Embassy strongly recommends U.S. citizens not try to pass roadblocks, as there have been incidents of violence in the past.  U.S. citizens should avoid travel in affected areas.
 
Even demonstrations that are meant to be peaceful can become violent and unpredictable.  You should avoid them if at all possible.  Be alert and aware of your surroundings and pay attention to what the local news media has to say. 

Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, by calling the regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the nearest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate.  By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the embassy/consulates to contact them in case of emergency.  Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.  Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook, and download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.

The U.S. Embassy is located on Avenida La Paz in Tegucigalpa; telephone (504) 2238-5114, after hours telephone (504) 2236-8497; Consular Section fax (504) 2238-4357; E-mail: usahonduras@state.gov;  Webpage: http://honduras.usembassy.gov.