Holidaymakers considering a trip to Papua New Guinea have been advised to postpone their journey until the national elections have finished.
The US Department of State has issued a travel warning which notes that violence is likely between the beginning of the elections on June 30th and their conclusion on July 10th.
Opposing clans may also clash when the results are announced at the beginning of August.
The statement pronounces that one "could inadvertently be caught up in violence directed at others" and urges travellers to "avoid the areas of demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations".
Polling is staggered throughout the Highlands provinces during the election weeks, with violence also anticipated in Port Moresby and Lae.
Large-scale demonstrations are expected, with a high risk of the violence that accompanied the 2002 elections.
The statement also reminds US citizens and other holidaymakers that "even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence".
Multiple polling sites could stretch the security services in the country and travelers are advised to be wary of large gatherings during the election period.
