Whether you're taking a quick trip to Mexico or Cuba, or flying across the ocean to Spain or Thailand, these advisories cover everything from safety concerns to weather impacts. From supply shortages to surges in violent crime, keeping an eye on potential risks at your chosen spot is just smart planning.
So, before you lock in those flights, here's a look at the travel warnings issued in November 2024 that Canadians need to know about some of the hottest winter escapes this season.
Jamaica
Last Updated: November 15, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to the high level of violent crime.
Details: Jamaica's stunning beaches and vibrant culture come with some risks, as violent crime remains a significant concern even in popular tourist areas like Kingston and Montego Bay. Armed robberies and other violent incidents, often tied to gangs and the availability of firearms, can occur anywhere, including areas frequented by tourists. Some neighbourhoods, including Trench Town and Tivoli Gardens in Kingston, are considered high-risk for gang-related violence. Visitors are urged to avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and to stay within resort areas whenever possible.
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, avoid walking alone and be cautious with valuables. If confronted by robbers, authorities recommend not resisting. Always stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.
Jamaica Travel Advisory
Bahamas
Last Updated: November 14, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in the Bahamas due to high rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.
Details: While the Bahamas offers picture-perfect beaches, visitors should be aware of the high rates of crime, particularly in Nassau and Freeport. Violent incidents such as armed robberies, home invasions and sexual assaults have been reported, even in popular resort areas and cruise ship terminals. Women should exercise extra caution, as incidents of sexual assault, including cases involving spiked drinks or food, are on the rise.
The government suggests travellers stick to tourist areas, avoid walking alone at night and keep their valuables out of sight. Be cautious when using ATMs and monitor your credit card transactions for fraud. For safety, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and decline offers of rides from strangers or unlicensed taxi drivers. Always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Bahamas Travel Advisory
Spain
Last Updated: November 14, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Spain due to the threat of terrorism.
Details: Spain remains a popular destination for travellers, but the Canadian government advises caution due to the threat of terrorism and petty crime, particularly in major cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Terrorists have previously targeted public areas and transportation hubs, and the current threat level is rated as "high." Visitors are encouraged to stay alert, especially during holidays and large public events.
Petty crime, like pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in tourist hotspots, including Las Ramblas in Barcelona and the Puerta del Sol area in Madrid. Thieves often work in groups, using distractions to steal belongings. Violent crime is rare but can occur, particularly in vacation rentals or coastal areas.
Flooding and landslides have also affected areas like Valencia and Andalusia due to heavy rains this week. Travellers should confirm local conditions and stay informed about weather alerts.
Spain Travel Advisory
Brazil
Last Updated: November 14, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high crime rates and gang-related violence in urban areas. Avoid non-essential travel to specific border regions.
Details: Brazil's breathtaking landscapes and vast beaches come with notable risks, especially in major cities like Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Salvador, where crime rates are high. Tourists may encounter theft, armed robbery and carjacking, with petty crimes such as pickpocketing particularly prevalent near beaches, markets and public transit hubs. Drive-by robberies by armed thieves on motorcycles are common in São Paulo and Porto Alegre. Border areas with countries like Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru are particularly dangerous due to narcotics trafficking and arms smuggling, and travel there should be avoided.
Avoid isolated areas, walking alone at night, and displaying valuables such as phones or jewelry. In Rio, incidents involving spiked drinks have been reported, often leading to theft or assault. Express kidnappings, where victims are forced to withdraw funds, remain a concern.
Brazil Travel Advisory
Costa Rica
Last Updated: November 13, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution in Costa Rica due to crime.
Details: Costa Rica's natural beauty attracts countless visitors, but petty and violent crime are common concerns. Pickpocketing, purse snatching and thefts from cars frequently occur, especially in tourist hotspots like Manuel Antonio National Park and Montezuma on the Pacific coast, as well as Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean side. Thieves often work in teams, using distractions to steal belongings. Passport theft is especially prevalent during peak tourist seasons.
Violent crime, including armed robberies and assaults, is less common but can happen, particularly in provinces like San José, Limón, and Puntarenas. If threatened, authorities recommend handing over valuables without resistance.
Recent heavy rainfall has also led to flooding, landslides and infrastructure damage, particularly in Guanacaste and the Pacific region. National parks may close on short notice, and water service disruptions are reported in areas like Escazú and Santa Ana.
Costa Rica Travel Advisory
Mexico
MexicoLast Updated: November 8, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.
Details: The Canadian government advises caution when visiting Mexico, where high levels of crime and kidnappings, including express kidnappings, are reported. Tourists should avoid non-essential travel to high-risk states like Guerrero, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas due to organized crime and violence. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded areas, while violent incidents have occurred even in resorts and tourist hotspots.
Stick to secure areas, avoid travelling at night, and use reputable transportation services. Keep valuables secure, and don’t resist if confronted by criminals.
Mexico Travel Advisory
Cuba
Last Updated: November 8, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to shortages of basic necessities, including food, medicine, and fuel.
Details: Travellers to Cuba should be prepared for widespread shortages of essentials like food, medication, and fuel. Power outages are frequent, especially outside Havana, and hotels may struggle to maintain services during prolonged outages. Transportation disruptions are common due to fuel shortages, and long lines at gas stations can lead to altercations. Bring necessary items like toiletries, medication, and emergency supplies, and monitor local conditions closely.
Tourists are also advised to remain cautious of petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from accommodations or vehicles. Violent crime is less frequent but can occur during burglaries or robberies. In addition, recent hurricanes, including Rafael and Oscar, have caused significant damage in western Cuba and Guantanamo province, where non-essential travel should be avoided.
Cuba Travel Advisory
Thailand
Last Updated: November 8, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations. Avoid all travel to certain southern provinces.
Details: Thailand is experiencing political instability, with demonstrations in Bangkok and other cities that can disrupt transportation and escalate into violence. In the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala, separatist insurgents have carried out violent attacks, making these areas unsafe for travel.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in crowded tourist areas, on buses, and during events like full moon parties. Visitors should secure belongings, especially passports, and avoid walking alone at night. Demonstration hotspots in Bangkok include Victory Monument and Ratchaprasong Intersection, where heightened security measures may be in effect.
Thailand Travel Advisory
Peru
Last Updated: November 4, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of crime, social conflicts, and strikes.
Details: Travellers to Peru should be aware of frequent demonstrations, strikes, and high crime rates across the country. Strikes can disrupt travel to popular sites like Machu Picchu and may lead to border closures with Bolivia. States of emergency, which are currently in effect in parts of Lima, Callao and other regions, result in heightened police and military presence. Avoid involvement in demonstrations, as participation by foreigners is prohibited and could result in detention.
Certain areas, including the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene, and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM), face domestic terrorism and drug trafficking threats. Avoid non-essential travel near the borders with Colombia and Ecuador due to safety risks such as landmines and criminal activity.
Peru Travel Advisory
Colombia
Last Updated: November 4, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to high levels of crime. Avoid all travel to certain border regions.
Details: The Canadian government warns of high crime rates and a risk of kidnappings in Colombia. Armed groups operate in areas like Arauca, Cauca, and near the borders with Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama. These regions are unsafe due to violent crime and illegal activities, and non-essential travel should be avoided.
In cities like Bogotá, Medellín and Cartagena, crimes like pickpocketing, express kidnappings and scopolamine druggings are reported. Use caution with dating apps, as criminals often use them to target tourists. Demonstrations are common and can turn violent, disrupting transportation and services.
Stick to reputable accommodations, avoid isolated areas, and remain vigilant. Avoid hailing taxis on the street, and never leave food or drinks unattended.
Colombia Travel Advisory
Dominican Republic
Last Updated: November 4, 2024
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution due to crime.
Details: Tourists visiting the Dominican Republic should be mindful of opportunistic crimes, including pickpocketing, bag-snatching and theft at resorts, airports and public transportation. Drive-by robberies, where thieves grab belongings from pedestrians or reach into cars, are common. Violent crime, though less frequent, can occur, particularly at night in major cities like Santo Domingo.
Travellers should only use authorized taxis, secure valuables and avoid walking alone after dark. Credit card fraud and scams, including impersonation by rogue police officers and lawyers, have been reported. Be cautious with food and drinks, as spiking incidents have occurred.
Dominican Republic Travel Advisory
Stay safe in the sun, Canada!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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Colleen and John Fullerton of Lockport, Manitoba are shown in this handout photo provided by their daughter Amanda Fullerton.Amanda Fullerton | The Canadian Press/Handout