Travel advisories to some very popular destinations issued by Canada

Some popular and sunny destinations have updated or new travel advisories from the Canadian government.

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. 11 and 12).

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

Ecuador

Risks: High levels of crime, violence

Reasons: On January 9, 2024, the Government of Ecuador declared a nationwide state of “internal armed conflict” to allow security forces to better respond to a sharp increase in gang violence across the country, including in Guayaquil and Quito. There are reports of small explosions, attacks on businesses and car burnings.

Some flights have been cancelled but airports continue to operate. Before departure, check with your airline. There may also be disruptions to bus travel.

Travellers are advised to:

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Papua New Guinea

Risks: High levels of crime, violence

Reasons: Travellers are asked to avoid non-essential travel due to high levels of crime, inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest.

On Jan. 10, civil disorder, looting and arson were reported across Port Moresby, and other parts of Papua New Guinea, during protests by security services. The rioting resulted in several casualties. And on Jan. 11 local authorities declared a 14-day state of emergency for The National Capital District, including Port Moresby.

If you’re in Port Moresby:

• avoid areas where protests and looting are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including any evacuation, curfew or movement restriction orders
• monitor local media for the latest information about the situation

Dominican Republic

Risks: High levels of crime

Reasons: Violent crimes occur in the Dominican Republic, however, most incidents are opportunistic crime which is the most significant threat to tourists. Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag-snatching happens at resorts, beaches, airports, bus stations and on public transportation.

Thefts are reported at all-inclusive hotel rooms and from hotel room safes, as well as from cars, particularly rentals.

France

Risks: Elevated threat of terrorism.

Reasons: There is a threat of terrorism across Europe and over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.

On Oct.13 2023, the Prime Minister of France raised the security threat level within the “Vigipirate” plan to “urgence attentat” (“attack emergency”). This is the highest level in the Vigipirate plan, a set of measures to prepare and protect the population and public places.

Trinidad and Tobago

Risks: Violent crime on the island of Trinidad

Reasons: Violent crime, including armed robberies, assaults and sexual assault, occurs frequently on the island of Trinidad, especially in the capital, Port of Spain. Tourists have been targeted.

Travellers are advised to:

• Avoid deserted beaches and isolated areas after dark. On certain beaches, security is only provided from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Don’t walk alone at night
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash or show signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Never leave personal belongings, such as money, credit cards, cell phones and other electronics, unattended, especially on beaches
• If possible, stay in hotels or villas with guards and security cameras.

Spain

Risks: Threat of terrorism, protests

Reasons: There is a threat of terrorism across Europe, and in Spain, attacks causing deaths and injuries have occurred. Further attacks in Spain cannot be ruled out.

And since Nov. 9, 2023, demonstrations in opposition to an amnesty agreement offered to leaders of the Catalonian independence movement have been taking place across the country, particularly in Madrid.

The demonstrations have caused disruptions to services and transportation and have led to acts of vandalism, arson, and violent clashes between demonstrators and police. In certain cases, security forces have used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds.

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

Photo: Leonardo Rossatti