Spring is nearly here, so that means Canadians everywhere are planning their upcoming vacations. But before you make any bookings or lock any plans in, it’s good to check the Government of Canada’s travel advisories to stay informed about where you’re travelling to.
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Although travel advisories won’t outright bar you from travelling to another country, it is recommended that you follow the advice given by Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website page.
Canada Travel Advisories
Travel advisories are split into four different categories. At the bottom, you have “take normal security precautions.” Things begin to heighten as you go up, leading to exercising a high degree of caution, avoiding non-essential travel, and then avoiding all travel.
Travellers are always recommended to practice standard caution while in a different country. Although, some destinations are experiencing a number of issues that can make travelling more difficult or dangerous.
Destinations Under A Travel Advisory
- United Kingdom: Exercise a high degree of caution
- Terrorist incidents have occurred in public areas, as well as demonstrations that have taken place regularly. Violent and petty crime can happen in certain tourist areas, such as London.
- Jamaica: Exercise a high degree of caution
- Violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, continue to be an issue in large cities. Women are also at risk of unwanted attention and should exercise caution when travelling alone.
- France: Exercise a high degree of caution
- France has experienced a number of “opportunistic and premeditated” terrorist attacks over the past few years. Petty and violent crimes are also known to happen, with petty criminals often targeting tourists.
- Italy: Exercise a high degree of caution
- Petty crime, sexual assault, and spiked drinks have been known to occur in Italy. Tourists are recommended to practice extra caution in regards to their belongings, as well as their foods and drinks.
- Costa Rica: Exercise a high degree of caution
- Tourists are often the victim of petty criminals in Costa Rica, including purse snatching and pickpocketing. Thieves also tend to work in teams with one thief diverting a victims’ attention while another snatches their possessions.
- Mexico: Exercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories)
- Due to high levels of violence and organized crime, Mexico has certain areas under a regional, avoid non-essential travel advisory.
To see if your destination is currently under any travel advisories from the Government of Canada, check out the webpage here.
