Canada issues travel advisories for these sunny beach destinations

As temperatures plunge, many Canadians seek a warm-weather travel break.

Wind chill values dropped down to -20 C in Mississauga and other parts of southern Ontario on Thursday.

While there are many travel deals out there, it is a good idea to check out the latest advisories when preparing for a trip. Safety levels can change quickly.

The federal government 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.

Here are some countries with updated travel advisories:

Chile

Risks: Demonstrations, civil unrest and water safety.

Reasons: Demonstrations and strikes occur regularly in Santiago, particularly in Plaza Italia, also known as Plaza Baquedano, as well as in Valparaíso and Concepción. They also occur occasionally elsewhere in the country. They may lead to traffic disruptions.

Dangerous waves caused by large ocean swells occur along the Chilean coast. Large waves carrying rocks and other debris can occur without warning and even when the local weather is clear.

Travellers near the coast should monitor local swell reports, exercise caution in coastal and rocky areas, and not enter the ocean or engage in boating or water activities when swell warnings are in force.

Trinidad and Tobago

Risks: Violent crime.

Reasons: On Dec. 30, 2024, the Trinidad and Tobago authorities declared a nationwide state of emergency in response to gang violence. While the state of emergency is in effect, security forces have increased rights and can, without warrants, conduct searches of persons and property, and arrest and detain persons of interest.

Expect an increased police and military presence. The advisory suggests travellers carry their ID at all times and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Mexico

Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Reasons: Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico. Criminal activity and violence occur regularly in border areas. There have been violent clashes between rival armed groups in Culiacán, Mazatlán and their surrounding areas recently.

Tourist areas are generally safe but travellers have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. Fighting between criminal gangs and cartels has happened in restaurants, hotels and nightclubs.

Brazil

Risks: High crime rates and regular incidents of gang-related and other violence in urban areas.

Reasons: Violent crime, often involving weapons, is common.

Violent crime often occurs in tourist areas in Rio de Janeiro such as the Christ the Redeemer statue, Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach. Crime also occurs in tourist areas in São Paulo such as the historical downtown area and the municipal market.

Travellers should stay aware of their surroundings at all times, avoid going out after dark, travel in groups, avoid isolated areas and not resist an attack.

Bahamas

Risks: High rates of crime, especially in Nassau and Freeport.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, may occur in tourist areas.

Robberies also occur in cruise ship terminals and in and around popular resort areas in Nassau and Freeport, even in daylight hours. Crime increases during the holidays, festivals and regattas.

The advisory suggests travellers exercise caution at all times, especially during jet ski rides, avoid walking alone after dark and avoid unattended beaches. Visitors shouldn’t accept offers of transportation, drinks or drugs from strangers.

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

Lead photo of Tulum, Mexico: Math

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