Canada issues travel advisories for these tourist destinations

Fall is nearly here and it’s a great time to travel.

Prices are typically lower and there are fewer crowds at popular destinations.

Those planning a trip this fall may want to check out the latest travel advisories.

Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories website page helps travellers make informed decisions and travel safely outside the country.

They analyze trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitor world events and collect updated reports from different sources.

Here are five countries with updated advisories:

Mayotte

Risks: High levels of crimes of opportunity.

Reasons: Crimes of opportunity and petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occur frequently. Thieves could target foreigners, particularly in Kawéni neighbourhood, in the capital Mamoudzou, and in crowded public areas such as markets, the airport and public transportation facilities, hotel lobbies, restaurants, patios and outdoor cafés, and tourist sites and attractions.

China

Risks: Arbitrary enforcement of local laws.

Reasons: Canada’s ability to provide consular assistance in China is limited due to the level of transparency in China’s judicial system. It may also impact your ability to obtain effective legal assistance.

In China, travellers may be subject to severe punishments, even for non-violent acts such as financial crimes. Chinese authorities may also apply the death penalty for crimes deemed serious, including drug offences.

Travellers could also be subject to an exit ban, which they may only learn about as they go through customs and immigration controls when trying to leave China. An exit ban may prevent travellers from leaving the country if they, their family or their employer and/or business associates are involved in any open civil or criminal investigations, including business disputes.

Cambodia

Risks: An increase in petty crime.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as phone and bag snatching, occurs frequently. Thieves, sometimes on motorcycles, grab bags and other valuables, including passports. Theft targeting foreigners is frequent on sidewalks, on motorcycles and tuktuks (rickshaws) in Phnom Penh, particularly the riverfronts and the Boeung Keng Kang areas, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville.

Personal belongings have been stolen from locked rooms, particularly in low-cost accommodations. Items have been removed from luggage stored in the luggage compartments of buses, especially on the journey between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

Mexico

Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Reasons: In recent weeks, there have been violent clashes between rival armed groups in Culiacán, Mazatlán and their surrounding areas. Armed groups have stopped vehicles on the highway from Culiácan to Mazatlán and other major roads.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.

The advisory suggests travellers stay aware of their surroundings at all times, keep personal belongings, including passports and other travel documents, in a secure place, and don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery.

Belgium

Risks: Due to the threat of terrorism.

Reasons: There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. In Belgium, separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place. Further attacks in Belgium cannot be ruled out.

Following a shooting in Brussels in October 2023, the national threat level increased to level 3 on a scale of 4. Travellers can expect heightened security measures, including an increased police presence across the country, increased caution and scrutiny from security forces, and potential added security measures in certain places

The advisory suggests travellers always be aware of their surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events, and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

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

Lead photo of Bandrélé, Canton de Bouéni, Mayotte: Arthur Davion

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