Before you take the plane to escape the Quebec winter that is setting in, know that the Government of Canada recently issued travel warnings concerning certain sun destinations popular with tourists at this time of year. Indeed, while you want to escape to the sun to take a vacation, certain countries are currently going through upheavals that could influence your itinerary. It is therefore best to check this information before deciding where to put your suitcases.
Also read: Here are 14 of the cheapest DREAM tourist destinations to travel to in 2024
Whether due to natural disasters or extreme weather conditions, high crime rates, political tensions or significant events, authorities in October and November 2024 updated the risk level for these six countries and recommend exercising great caution there.
Costa Rica
Risk level: Exercise extreme caution
What to know: Local authorities have issued https://twitter.com/VoyageGdC/status/1855090252450271361due to expected heavy rains. The Pacific Slope and Central Valley of Costa Rica are under orange alert, indicating a high risk of very heavy rain, while the Caribbean slope and the northern zone are on yellow alert, signaling a moderate risk.
According to Canadian authorities, these extreme weather conditions caused significant damage to infrastructure, including roads and rail networks, as well as interruptions to electricity and telecommunications. Some areas, such as Alajuelita, Desamparados Sur, Escazu and Santa Ana, may experience water interruptions or rationing until further notice. Additionally, severe flooding and landslides were reported in Guanacaste province.
The crime rate is also a risk factor in this country. The Government of Canada indicates that minor crimes, such as theft pickpockets and handbag thefts, are common, with tourists often seen as easy targets. Car and home burglaries as well as passport thefts, particularly in high season, are also common, particularly in tourist areas, public transport, hotels and restaurants.
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Mexico
Risk level: Use extreme caution (with regional warnings)
What to know: The high crime rate and the presence of organized crime in certain regions of Mexico prompt the Government of Canada to warn of the risks of violence in this country. Frequent clashes between rival armed groups in the Culiacán sector, Mazatlán and surrounding areas have been reported. Travelers should exercise extreme caution, limit their travel, and follow local information for their safety.
Canadian authorities also recommend avoiding all non-essential travel to around fifteen Mexican states. These warnings are linked to the high level of violence as well as the risks of kidnapping which have been in force for several months already. “Kidnappers, including flash kidnappings, are common throughout Mexico. The kidnappers targeted foreigners, including Canadians,” the notice states.
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Cuba
Risk level: Use extreme caution (with regional warnings)
What to know: Cuba has been widely affected by natural disasters in recent weeks. On October 20, 2024, Hurricane Oscar made landfall in Guantanamo province, east of the city of Baracoa, causing widespread damage. Then, on November 6, Hurricane Rafael devastated the west of the country, bringing heavy rains and violent winds. Very recently, on November 10, 2024, southern Cuba was shaken by a powerful earthquake, followed by an even stronger aftershock.
Not only have these disasters caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure, but the island has also been facing nationwide power outages since October 18. There are also shortages of food, medicine and fuel.
The Canadian government therefore recommends avoiding all non-essential travel to the province of Guantanamo, as well as to the western provinces such as Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, La Habana, Mayabeque, Matanzas and The Island of Youth.
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Jamaica
Risk level: Exercise extreme caution
What to know: This warning, updated on November 8, 2024, highlights the high level of violent crime across the country, including armed robberies and murders, which remain a major problem in major cities and tourist areas. Although local authorities are making efforts to counter these activities, certain areas of Kingston, Montego Bay, St. Catherine and South Coast remain particularly exposed.
“Firearms are easily accessible, and the majority of violent crimes, often linked to drugs or street gangs, involve the use of firearms, increasing the risk of stray bullets in these areas,” says the Canadian government website. Local authorities may declare a state of emergency in certain areas to combat gang-related crime.
In case of exceptional measures during your stay, cooperate with security forces, especially during searches, and keep identification with you at all times, as checkpoints may be in place. Also stay informed by following local news.
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Nicaragua
Risk level: Exercise extreme caution
What to know: The Government of Canada recommends extreme caution in Nicaragua due to political instability, the risk of civil unrest and crime. Since 2018, the country has seen harsh crackdowns against government critics, including arbitrary arrests, media censorship, and searches of personal property. Travelers are advised to avoid any political comments or activities and to remain discreet online.
Crime also remains high, with thefts and burglaries common in some cities and tourist areas, particularly in deprived neighborhoods and border areas where gangs are active. The Canadian Embassy’s capacity to assist may be limited if necessary.
Nicaragua is also one of the destinations where the number of dengue cases has been increasing recently. This infection transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito can cause many symptoms like fever, severe headache, pain and others.
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Dominican Republic
Risk level: Exercise extreme caution
What to know: Updated on November 4, 2024, this government advice particularly concerns outbreaks of Oropouche virus disease (OVD) that have been reported in the Americas, including the Dominican Republic. “Although this virus has already been detected in the region, there are now more cases than usual, and some regions are recording cases for the first time,” it is mentioned.
The risks of this virus particularly affect pregnant people. Authorities explain that the Oropouche virus could be transmitted from mother to fetus, leading to serious risks such as stillbirth or problems with brain development. As a precaution, pregnant people should avoid areas where the virus is present until its effects on the baby are better understood.
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