What other countries say about Canada as far as travel advisories go

Summer travel season is at its peak right now in Canada and many visitors flock to tourism hot spots.

The Canadian government maintains a travel advisory page to help travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside Canada.

Advising citizens about travel outside their borders is a common practice for countries around the world.

At times Canada issues advisories for countries many people deem safe. But events such as dangerous storms as in Taiwan or terrorist attacks in Europe can change the advisory.

Right now, Canada is deemed safe by most countries but governments still have advice listed on their websites for citizens embarking on a trip to the Great White North.

Australia suggests people travelling to Canada “take normal security precautions” with a warning about severe wildfires, particularly in Jasper this month.

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The Aussies warn hikers to get advice before hitting the trail.

“Bears and other dangerous wildlife live in forested areas,” the advisory reads.

They also say driving in winter can be dangerous and suggest drivers use snow tires and drive to conditions.

The U.S. advisory warns that “Canada controls firearms more strictly than the United States. Violation of firearms restrictions may result in prosecution and imprisonment.”

They suggest people crossing the border “inspect all belongings thoroughly before traveling to Canada to avoid accidentally importing firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.”

The United Kingdom advisory for Canada states terrorist attacks are possible.

“There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets,” the advisory reads.

New Zealand suggests travellers take precautions during winter.

“Canada often has extreme weather conditions, in winter (December to March) most of Canada experiences extreme cold (below -20 degrees celsius), snow and ice storms which affects local infrastructure including power outages as well as creating dangerous driving conditions,” the advisory notes.

The Japanese advisory for Canada notes (translated): “In general, there is an image that Canada is relatively safe and secure, but serious crimes such as theft, sex crimes, and illegal drug possession occur at a higher rate than in Japan.”

The advisory also mentions the legalization of cannabis and warns that it remains illegal in Japan.

“Cannabis also serves as a gateway to more addictive drugs…” the advisory notes.

Most advisories suggest travellers exercise common sense and become familiar with local laws to stay safe.