Canada issues new travel advisories to these holiday destinations

Those looking for a holiday escape may want to check out the latest travel advisories from the Government of Canada.

The Government of Canada maintains a Travel Advice and Advisories page to help travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside Canada.

They analyze trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitor world events and collect updated reports from different sources.

The Travel Advice and Advisories page was updated this week (Jan. 22 to 25).

Here are some of the countries with new or updated advisories:

Germany

Risks: Elevated threat of terrorism.

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Reasons: There is a threat of terrorism across Europe as terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Targets could include government buildings, places of worship, airports and other transportation hubs and networks, and public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, Christmas markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners.

The Government of Germany maintains a public alert system on terrorism. Alert level changes are communicated through local media.

Jamaica

Risks: High level of violent crime.

Reasons: Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay. Tourists are at risk of crimes of opportunity, especially theft and robberies.

The availability of firearms is widespread, and most violent drug- and gang-related crimes, especially murder, involve firearms. There is a risk of becoming the victim of crossfire in these areas.

Nicaragua

Risks: The political situation means there is the potential for civil unrest and crime.

Reasons: The political situation remains volatile in Nicaragua. In April 2018, President Daniel Ortega announced changes to the pension system sparking protests. And since the 2021 presidential elections, Nicaraguan government officials and law enforcement have severely repressed those critical or opposed to government policies resulting in hundreds of deaths and detentions.

Those visiting Nicaragua should refrain from discussing the political situation in public or online including social media, and avoid all political activities.

Vietnam

Risks: High rate of petty crime.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and may increase during major public holidays, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), which falls on Saturday, Feb. 10 this year.

Criminals work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract you and steal your belongings. They may try to grab your bag and other valuables while passing on a motorbike or slash your bag in crowded streets and markets.

Travellers should also watch out for credit and debit card fraud at ATMs or while using public Wi-Fi networks.

Cambodia

Risks: Increased rate of petty crime.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as phone and bag snatching, occurs frequently. Thieves, sometimes on motorcycles, grab bags and other valuables, including passports. Theft targeting foreigners is frequent on sidewalks, on motorcycles and tuktuks (rickshaws) in the larger cities including capital Phnom Penh, particularly the riverfronts and the Boeung Keng Kang.

South Africa

For a complete list of advisories and further information, see the website here.

Main photo of Nicaragua: Alexander Schimmeck