TRAVEL ALERTS

1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 3 has been updated (information on the 2012 European Football Championship removed).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

PolandExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
Canadians should ensure that valuables, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 3 has been updated (information on the 2012 European Football Championship removed).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

UkraineExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
Canadians should exercise a high degree of caution. They should avoid showing signs of affluence and ensure personal belongings, passports, and all other travel documents are secure at all times.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 2 has been updated (presidential elections).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

MexicoExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
More than 1.5 million Canadians travel to Mexico each year, the vast majority of them without incident. However, Canadians should exercise a high degree of caution, especially in those parts of the country experiencing a deteriorating security situation. Most major tourist areas have not been affected by the extreme levels of violence in the northern region. It is highly advisable to travel to Mexico by air in order to avoid land border crossings through potentially dangerous regions. Avoid road travel at night between cities throughout the country. High levels of criminal activity, as well as occasional demonstrations and protests, remain a concern throughout the country. For these reasons, Canadians are strongly advised to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service if travelling to or residing in Mexico.

Due to high levels of organized crime and urban violence, Canadians should exercise extreme caution in the states of Guerrero (including Acapulco), Nayarit, Michoacán and Veracruz. The coastal area of Southern Nayarit (from Nuevo Vallarta to La Peñita de Jaltemba), a popular destination among Canadians, remains relatively safe. However, travel outside the tourist area requires extra precaution.

Presidential elections were held on July 1, 2012. In the coming days, Canadians are advised to remain vigilant, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, exercise caution, follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor local media.

Northern statesExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the following northern states: Northern Baja California, Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Durango and Sinaloa (excluding Mazatlán), due to continuously high levels of violence linked to organized crime. Shootouts, attacks, and illegal roadblocks may occur at any time. Criminals especially target sport utility vehicles and full-size pickup trucks for theft and carjacking along highways. Road travel should be avoided.

Travel to and in Ciudad Juarez poses particular challenges and requires extreme caution.

Canadians required to travel to Monterrey, in the State of Nuevo León, should avoid movement after dark and stay within the suburb of San Pedro Garza García.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 9 has been updated (aircraft crash).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

NigeriaExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Nigeria.

The security situation in Nigeria is unpredictable and there is a significant risk of terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks, banditry, and kidnappings.

There is a high threat of domestic terrorism in some parts of Nigeria, especially in northeastern and middle-belt states, and the Federal Capital Territory, where the extremist group Boko Haram, which often claims responsibility for terror attacks, is active.

On April 18, 2012, the United States published an Emergency Message for U.S. citizens stating that the U.S. Embassy has received information that Boko Haram may be planning attacks in the capital city of Abuja, including against hotels frequently visited by Westerners. On April 26, 2012, an explosion occurred in Abuja at the Nigerian newspaper This Day. The newspaper’s Kaduna office was also targeted by an explosion. Deaths and injuries were reported in both incidents.

Terrorism-related incidents have occurred in Abuja (Federal Capital Territory) in the past. On June 16, 2011, an explosion occurred at the national police headquarters, resulting in deaths and injuries, and on August 26, 2011, a large bomb exploded at the United Nations building, killing over 20 people and wounding dozens.

Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and could target locations frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, including large hotels, bars, markets and shopping centers. Canadians are advised to maintain a high level of security awareness in these public areas. You should also be particularly cautious around places of worship, and avoid large gatherings. Vehicle borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) have targeted churches in several communities, including on religious holidays. On February 26 and March 11, 2012, churches in Jos were attacked by VBIEDs, causing deaths and injuries. In subsequent reprisal attacks, many muslims were killed and injured. On April 8, 2012, Easter Sunday, a VBIED exploded in Kaduna and several hours later another bomb exploded in Jos. These attacks resulted in dozens of deaths and injuries. Nigerian authorities have declared a state of emergency in some areas of Borno, Yobe, Niger, and Plateau states. The borders with Cameroon, Niger and Chad could be closed on short notice.

Some terrorist attacks have been coordinated and large-scale.  On January 20, 2012, a series of explosions and shootings occurred at several government buildings and police stations across the city of Kano, killing close to 200 people and injuring many more. Canadians in the area are advised to exercise a high degree of caution as tension continues throughout the region. Canadians are also advised to monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Curfews are currently in effect for the cities of Gusau (Zamfara State), Kano (Kano State), Maiduguri (Borno State), Minna (Niger State), Potiskum (Yobe State), and Yola (Adamawa State). Canadians in affected areas are urged to limit their essential movements to daylight hours, avoid all public gatherings, keep a supply of basic foods on hand, monitor the security situation and closely follow the advice of local authorities, especially with respect to curfews.

Violent crimes occur in major urban centres such as Abuja and Lagos. Incidents include armed attacks against foreign nationals and assaults in areas frequented by foreigners. Travellers are advised to remain alert and extremely vigilant. After dark, all unnecessary travel should be avoided. Road accidents are a serious risk and Canadians should exercise great caution, especially highway travel and outside major urban areas.

Kidnappings are a particular threat in the Niger Delta region, but can occur elsewhere in the country. On May 31, 2012, an Italian national was kidnapped in Kwara State. On January 26, 2012, a German national was kidnapped in Kano and then killed on May 31, 2012. A British national and an Italian national were kidnapped in Kebbi on May 12, 2011, and killed by their captors on March 8, 2012.

Regional WarningExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to some northeastern states and some northern cities, some Niger Delta states, as well as to the area bordering the Bakassi Peninsula, and Plateau State.

Northeastern states of Borno, Gombe and Yobe, and Kano and Kaduna cities

There is a high threat of domestic terrorism in some states of Nigeria. The extremist group Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for most attacks. Since May 2011, several bombs have exploded in Gombe, Yobe, and especially Borno states. On November 5, 2011, attacks in Borno and Yobe left more than 60 people dead. Canadians are advised to remain highly vigilant and avoid large crowds and public gatherings.

We also advise against all travel to Kaduna city and Kano city, where Boko Haram has carried out bombings and armed attacks. On April 29, 2012, church services at the Bayero University in Kano were disrupted by explosions and gunfire. Close to 20 people were killed and many more were injured.

Niger Delta states of Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, Imo, Anambra and Rivers

The security situation in the Niger River Delta region, particularly in the states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers, is fragile.

Foreign nationals are at a heightened risk of abduction and armed assault. Armed groups have carried out successful attacks on oil facilities and workers, resulting in injuries and deaths. Attacks, kidnappings, hostage takings, and ship hijackings are very common in this extremely volatile area.

Canadians are advised to remain extremely vigilant if in the city of Port Harcourt (Rivers State) and surrounding areas, as the potential for violent outbreaks, armed attacks, and kidnapping is very high. They should avoid the waterfront at all times.

Nigeria’s eastern region, particularly the states of Abia, Imo, and Anambra, have also seen an increase in kidnappings for ransom as well as violent acts. Recent events have demonstrated that attacks, often perpetrated by small groups of armed individuals, are indiscriminate. Residents and foreigners alike have been abducted and held captive, sometimes for days, until ransom was paid. Deaths have also been reported.

Area bordering the Bakassi Peninsula

Travel to the area in Cross River state bordering the Bakassi Peninsula in Cameroon should be avoided as tensions remain high and kidnappings have occurred.

Plateau State, including the city of Jos

The city of Jos has witnessed frequent episodes of inter-communal violence since 2001. Hundreds of people have died in violent clashes. Violence has also been reported in other areas of the state. The situation in Jos remains unstable and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent, may erupt without notice. On August 29, 2011, several people were killed in fighting and dozens of vehicles were set on fire. Canadians are advised to avoid demonstrations, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Jos has also been the target of terrorist attacks in recent months. Canadians should exercise extreme vigilance in the Jos area.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

A minor editorial change has been made.

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

SenegalExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
Politically, Senegal is a relatively stable country. The 2012 presidential elections resulted in a popular uprising that led to crimes and acts of violence never before seen in the country. However, since the end of the elections on February 26, 2012, public order has been restored and calm has returned to the capital.

Guinean border area

Canadians should exercise caution in the Guinean border area as the Senegalese authorities may at any time implement stricter controls in this area, including roadblocks at which travellers will be required to identify themselves.

Border areas with The Gambia and Guinea-Bissau

Roads near the border with The Gambia are not safe. Armed attacks on travellers have been reported recently, including in the Sedoba region. There is also tension near the border with Guinea-Bissau, in the areas of Ziguinchor, Nyassia and Niagha.


CasamanceExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to Casamance, with the exception of direct travel to Cap-Skirring, due to the deteriorating security situation.

The recent resumption of clashes between Senegalese forces and rebels of the MFDC (Mouvement des Forces Démocratiques de Casamance) and robberies across the region contribute to the insecurity.

If Canadians choose to visit the area despite this warning, they should travel by air, as road travel is unsafe. During the tourist season (November to April), there are direct flights from Dakar to Cap-Skiring. It is also possible to take the ferry to Ziguinchor. Any overland travel should be undertaken only on main roads during daylight hours, ideally in convoy and with reputable carriers.

Anti-personnel mines remain a danger in Basse-Casamance, where incidents are regularly reported. South of Ziguinchor, near the border with Guinea-Bissau, demining zones have been identified and demining operations are under way.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 5 has been updated (fax and e-mail).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

TunisiaExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
Despite the continually evolving political transition, the security situation remains relatively unstable, especially in areas outside the capital region.

Public order has been restored in most areas of the country; however political protests, labour strikes, roadblocks and other disturbances continue. Though most of these disturbances are peaceful, in July 2011 Canadian tourists were briefly detained in their vehicle due to labour unrest. On October 8, 2011, clashes between extremists and security forces left many people injured. Canadians should monitor the political and security situation via local media, avoid public gatherings, areas of local unrest, and all demonstrations, as they may become violent without warning, and follow the advice of local authorities. A state of emergency remains in effect in Tunisia and travelers should be aware that local curfews could be imposed at any time in any region. 

In recent months, a number of terrorist agents were captured in various regions, indicating that extremist elements are present and that the conflicts in Libya and elsewhere in the Middle East continue to pose a general threat to the security of foreigners, foreign institutions and tourist facilities. Canadians should exercise a high degree of caution, regularly review their security practices and remain alert to the changing situation.

Borders

Canadians should carefully plan any travel in the southern regions of Tunisia, especially along the Libyan and Algerian borders, as regional tensions increase the risk of terrorism or exposure to other disturbances.

Social tensions are reported especially in the Gafsa and Sidi Bouzid regions. Canadians are advised to remain vigilant because of the growing risk of crime, political demonstrations and road blocks in these regions, which have led to confrontations.

The borders with Algeria and Libya are open, but Canadians should consult with local authorities or the Embassy of Canada for the latest security information, as well as to register with the embassy. Canadians should also monitor local news reports and review the Travel Report for those two countries prior to departure.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 6 has been updated (hand, foot and mouth disease).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

VietnamExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
There is a heightened threat of terrorism throughout Southeast Asia, including Vietnam. Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times as the security situation could deteriorate rapidly without notice. Exercise caution, particularly in commercial and public establishments (hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, places of worship, outdoor recreation events) and tourist areas frequented by foreigners.

Canadians are reminded that public demonstrations are generally not tolerated in Vietnam, and can carry heavy penalties including lengthy jail sentences. Canadians are advised to avoid demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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1. RECENT UPDATES

Section 10 has been updated (earthquake in Northern Italy).<?xml:namespace prefix="o" ns="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /="">

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

There is no Official Warning for this country.

ItalyExercise normal security precautionsExercise high degree of cautionAvoid non-essential travelAvoid all travel
Canadians should exercise normal security precautions and ensure that valuables, passports, and other travel documents are secure at all times.

Naples and surrounding areas

Visitors to Naples and surrounding areas should be aware that local authorities have been dealing with a garbage disposal problem, which in the past has resulted in tonnes of waste piling up in the streets. The situation has improved, but some surrounding areas may still be affected.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.


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