Juan Vázquez Montalvo, weather forecaster at Autonomous University of Yucatan, informed that this week the entire Yucatan peninsula will be impacted by temperatures not seen in more than 50 years.

“It’s important that people take this situation very seriously by exercising precautions to protect themselves from very high temperatures. These weather conditions have not been seen in more than 50 years, so we are in uncharted territory,” he said.

These adverse weather conditions may result in people suffering from heat strokes. If that happens to you or your companions, make sure to cool the patient’s body temperature and keep them hydrated.

According to the National Meteorological Service (SMN), daytime temperatures will range from 39 (102F) to 41 (106F) in Quintana Roo.

Other states such as  Campeche, Tabasco, and Veracruz, will have temperatures above 45C (113F).

At night, people will have to deal with temperatures as high as 26C (79F), plus lots of humidity and no rain.

“The influx of humidity from the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico continues towards the peninsular region and the State of Quintana Roo. It will maintain partially cloudy skies with increasing cloudiness during the course of the day with little chance of rain,” the SMN said this weekend.

This “second” heatwave is caused by “an anticyclonic circulation of the atmosphere,” reported the State Coordination of Civil Protection.

For tomorrow, Tuesday, the SMN forecasts a thermal sensation of over 50C (122F), with no possibility of rain.

If you are thinking: “I’ve got AC, no problem,” that might not save you.

During the first heatwave dated mid-April, when temperatures reached 40C (104F), 18 states across Mexico experienced a blackout, including Quintana Roo, due to the “high demand for power.”

For more than two hours, some Cancun and Playa del Carmen neighborhoods didn’t have electricity, then operations returned to normal.

A situation like that can happen again if too much stress is put on the country’s CFE (Federal Electricity Commission), said the energy organization.

The post Cancun Area To Experience The Hottest Heat Wave In 50 Years, Warn Experts appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The US State Department has been advising citizens to “Reconsider Travel” to the border state of Baja California due to crime and kidnapping since August 2023.

In “Baja North,” the homicide rate has increased from 17.7 per 100,000 people in 2012 to 70.1 in 2024. The cities of Tijuana and Ensenada are the most concerning ones.

Most tourists come on short-term trips from California to visit the popular beaches of Rosarito and the famous brewery of Tecate.

Following the terrible murders of three tourists in Baja California last week, visitors must be wondering how safe traveling to this state is as of right now. Let’s see.

LATEST NEWS from Baja California:

May – One American and Two Australian Surfers Brutally Murdered in Baja California 

Callum Robinson and Jake Robinson, Australians and brothers, and Jack Road, an American, were killed when camping in the rural area of Santo Tomás, in Ensenada, Baja California.

The tourists set up camp in an uninhabited, remote area with no phone or internet access.

On May 2, the bodies were found inside a 15-meter deep well, 3.7 miles away from the campsite.  

According to Baja California Attorney General Elena Andrade: “When [the murderers] spotted the white Colorado pickup vehicle, owned by the victims, they approached with the intention of taking the vehicle, removing the tires or other parts, to put them in their own pickup, an older model. When they approached and surprised these people, they probably resisted, and the aggressors took out a firearm and killed them,” she said. 

So far, authorities have arrested three suspects including Jesús Gerardo ‘N’, alias El Kekas, his girlfriend (who had one of the victims’ phones), and another man.

The gun used to kill the tourists has also been found. This is an ongoing investigation so more details will be provided over the next few weeks.

Areas to Avoid

Baja California contains the cities of Tijuana, Ensenada, Mexicali, and Tecate, known for having some of the worst rates of violent crime in the entire Mexican territory.

Travel there at your own risk.

Official Travel Advisories 

US Travel Advisory

US authorities advise citizens to “Reconsider Travel” to this state due to high levels of crime and kidnapping.

“Reconsider Travel” means that the government doesn’t forbid travel to this area but it doesn’t recommend it either. 

Canada Travel Advisory

The Canadian government urges citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” when traveling across Mexico due to violent crime. 

Although the advisory mentions several states that Canadians shouldn’t visit, these don’t include Baja California in particular.

The government asks travelers to be vigilant at all times, avoid traveling to isolated or deserted areas, and stay at highly secure hotels because homicides, kidnappings, carjackings and assaults occur even in protected tourist hotspots.

Safety Tips for Baja California

Considering the horrendous murder of three tourists in Baja California last week, it’s important to follow safety recommendations to protect yourself and your beloved ones, now more than ever.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Always keep your family and friends back home posted about your whereabouts.
• When taking public transport, take a picture of the plate and send it to a friend.
• Do not travel to isolated or deserted areas and do not set up campsites at those places.
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• Refrain from excessive alcohol consumption.
• Don’t do or buy drugs.
• Stay calm and don’t resist if you are threatened by robbers.
• Only withdraw money from banks or shopping malls.
• If you happen to be an American, register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to help locate you in case of need. 

The post Is Baja California Safe To Visit This Summer? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Based on the situation on the ground, the agency determined it was prudent to emit minor modifications for one of the countries and leave the other one as it was.

In both cases, travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings when in tourist or crowded places; register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important security news and help locate you if needed; and have a plan ready if something unexpected happens.

Let’s review the updates. 

Germany – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The US State Department reissued its travel advisory for Germany with a minor change regarding terrorism.

The change is “minor” only because the US government still ranks Germany at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” which means the destination is pretty safe.

According to the agency, there are terrorist organizations willing to perpetrate attacks in German territory. 

Such attacks can occur at public or tourist venues, places of worship, public transportation, sporting and cultural events, educational centers, and all types of gatherings.

Poland – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The American government reviewed its travel advisory for Poland and determined the destination continues to be one of the safest places in the world.

Travelers only need to exercise common sense precautions when visiting this nation.

This travel alert is relevant because Poland shares an extensive international border with Ukraine, a country at war with Russia, and with Belarus, a country from where Russia has launched multiple attacks against Ukraine.

The post U.S. Issues Travel Advisory Updates For Two Popular European Countries appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Alert levels go from “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” to “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” and “Level 4: Do not travel.”

In most cases, these alerts were emitted due to concerns regarding terrorism, armed conflict, and civil unrest.

Without further ado, let’s explore what the US government advises about these seven nations and territories. 

Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

According to the US State Department, Americans who engage in tourism in Iraq are at “their own risk.” In case they still want to visit Iraq for leisure purposes, they should purchase travel insurance that offers medical evacuation.

Female travelers have been reportedly subject to “threats, kidnappings, abuse, and extortion, loss of custody of children and forced marriage.” 

However, terrorism in Iraq’s territory is its major concern. According to the agency, terrorists are not only using bombs but also knives, firearms, and vehicles to attack citizens.

Targeted venues include all types of public events, places of worship, educational centers, shopping centers, and transportation systems.

Make no mistake. ISIS, militia groups, and criminal gangs are actively targeting U.S. citizens “for attacks and hostage-taking.”

U.S. Embassy in Mexico Message

On April 19, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico informed its citizens on receiving embassy alerts via WhatsApp.

Ecuador – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Ecuador is a relatively safe country to visit. There are cases of civil unrest, murder, armed robbery, and kidnapping. But it doesn’t happen in the entire territory.

Do not travel to Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue; Huaquillas, Arenillas Quevedo, Quinsaloma, Pueblo Viejo, the canton of Duran and Esmeraldas due to crime.

Tourists entering Ecuador through Colombia and Peru land border crossings must present immigration officers with an apostilled certificate showing a criminal record. This certificate is issued by your local police department and has to be done in person.  

U.S. Embassy in Australia Alert

On April 15, the U.S. Embassy in Australia issued a “message” for American tourists visiting Australia due to a random attack at a shopping mall. 

Joel Cauchi (40) murdered 6 people and injured twelve at Bondi Junction’s Westfield shopping center. The attacker was specifically targeting women.

In a second case, a teenager stabbed a bishop and a priest in a church in a “religious-motivated extremism” act on April 16.

Americans must “remain vigilant” at all times when surrounded by large crowds in all types of public venues in Australia.

China, Hong Kong, Macau

Mainland China – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

American tourists must know that China has issued exit bans and wrongful detentions on US citizens.

In such cases, US nationals may not have access to consular aid and may not be informed about their alleged crimes. This mostly happens to businesspeople, ex-government personnel, academics, and journalists.

These exit bans have been used to force Chinese family members to return home, resolve legal matters in favor of the country’s nationals, and negotiate with international governments. 

Keep in mind that the Chinese government doesn’t recognize Americans’ dual nationality. Thus, if you get in legal trouble, you won’t be considered an American.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Civil liberties in Hong Kong have been severely restricted since June 30, 22. 

Hong Kong SAR officials further restricted these liberties starting March 23, 2024.

According to the SAR government, foreigners and nationals can incur in “vaguely defined offenses, such as treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets, sabotage against public infrastructure, and external interference.”

Taking part in public demonstrations can lead you to prison due to “acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country.” 

Hong Kong doesn’t recognize your dual nationality. To all effects, you are only Hongkonger. 

Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The US government has limited to zero consular capacity to assist you if you get in legal trouble in Macau.

US citizens with dual nationality are subject to increased harassment. Macau is another Chinese territory that doesn’t recognize your dual nationality. If you get into legal trouble, you can only rely on your local nationality. 

Do not participate in political demonstrations. That can lead you to jail.

Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza had five different travel alerts in April 2024 alone due to the changing political and safety situation in these territories.

According to the latest travel advisory issued on April 20, US citizens must remain alert at all times as security incidents are taking place with little to no warning.

Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings and register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts regarding the security situation in the area. 

Israel – Reconsider Travel

The security situation in Israel remains unstable due to terrorism and civil unrest.

US citizens must be prepared to easily locate bomb shelters as soon as possible in case of rocket fire, which is happening without warning.

U.S. government employees under the Chief of Mission security responsibility can be subject to increased security restrictions with no notice.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

Americans should reconsider travel to the West Bank due to terrorism, civil unrest and an increase in violence over the last few months.

U.S. government employees in Israel under the Chief of Mission are not allowed to travel to the West Bank for the time being. (It doesn’t apply to some restricted areas).

Gaza – Do Not Travel

American nationals must not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Israel is carrying out large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, so the US government is not providing citizens with any consular assistance for the time being. 

So, if you travel to Gaza, you must have a safety plan that doesn’t rely on US government assistance.

If you decide to travel to Gaza despite this, be prepared to get trapped in Gaza for an indefinite number of days because borders can close at any time with no warning.

Make sure to bring your medication and leave DNA samples with your medical provider back home in case you get murdered.

Armenia – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Armenia is a relatively safe country to travel to. However, there are some areas you should not visit. 

This country is currently having an armed conflict. Thus, do not travel to the border region with Azerbaijan; Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis; Syunik region east of Goris; Syunik region south of Kapan; and Yeraskh village.

Sometimes travelers unintentionally cross international borders. Not knowing this can get you into legal trouble, so make sure you know exactly where you are.

The post 8 Important U.S. Travel Advisories And Alerts Issued In April 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Back in February, the (RSLPF) revealed the country had 75 homicides in 2023.

So far the government’s main response to this crisis has been increasing bureaucracy. But it has failed to present any solid military strategy to address this issue. 

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has reportedly assured he’s willing to do anything or receive any helpful advice to halt this violence. 

Regardless, according to the US, UK, and Canadian governments, most visits to the country are trouble-free and the level of alert is the lowest possible. 

LATEST NEWS from St. Lucia:

St. Lucia has seen 30 murders in only 2024 – No solution in sight

St. Lucia is going through worrisome homicidal violence with more than 28 people being murdered in the first three months of 2024, Guy Joseph, deputy political leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) told reporters.

“This is a crisis situation, and we are not here gloating,” he said.

He also denounced that the government’s response was to designate three more ministers to bring this matter under control. But since then, crime has done nothing but increase.

“We are paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for their salaries,” he said. “We need to realize that this government cannot manage the crime situation,” Joseph concluded. 

Criminals in St. Lucia are “more organized than the government,” says official

The government has no crime plan. At least this is what opposition spokesman Lenard Montoute told reporters after learning the country reached its 30th homicide so far in 2024.

According to the official, the government wants to create another ministry to tackle crime. But his party disagrees.

“What we want is not necessarily new ministries or new ministers, what we want is the curbing of crime.”

“The Government does not have a plan for crime,” Montoute said. And “it appears at this time that the criminals are more organized than the government.”

The official called for a symposium where all political parties could offer useful solutions to this crisis. 

Areas to Avoid

The US government doesn’t advise citizens against visiting any areas in Saint Lucia.

However, stay away from the neighborhoods of Chaussee Road, Leslie Land, and Wilton’s Yard, as well as Vieux Fort, as they have become ghettos with high rates of criminality.   

Official Travel Advisories 

US Travel Advisory

Regardless of what the local media reports, the US government considers that traveling to Saint Lucia is extremely safe. It only asks Americans to exercise normal precautions when visiting. 

Canada Travel Advisory

Violent crime and gang-related violence have increased over the past year in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia. 

Purse snatching and pickpocketing are a common practice during national festivities. 

Also, there have been reports of solo female travelers being subject to harassment, verbal abuse and sexual assault. 

PDA among the 2SLGBTQ1+ community is frowned upon. Harassment can happen. 

Safety Tips for St. Lucia

Saint Lucia is still safe but some precautions should be taken. 

• Don’t visit isolated areas by yourself, especially at night.
• Don’t flash your money. 
• Don’t dress like a tourist; don’t make yourself a target.
• Wearing camouflage clothing is illegal. 
• Refrain from purchasing drugs.
• Put on repellent as dengue fever mosquitoes are an issue.
• Keep in mind that hurricane season goes from June to November. So plan accordingly.
• Never swim alone; currents are dangerous.
• Female travelers should avoid opening their doors after dark.

The post Is St. Lucia Island Safe? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Despite its small size of 104 square miles (269.4 square kilometers), the country boasts crater lakes, hiking paths, beaches, wildlife, and even a volcano.

Both the US and Canadian governments advise taking standard precautions while visiting t this country.

LATEST NEWS from Saint Kitts and Nevis:

April 21, 2024: 18-year-old man from the Dominican Republic shot dead in St. Kitts

On April 18, loopnews.com reported a homicide of a young man in John Street, Newtown. A Dominican Republic national was found dead with multiple gunshots. Local police launched an investigation into this tragic event.

St. Kitts and Nevis Deputy Prime Minister Dr Geoffrey Hanley released a statement about this murder on his Facebook: “We are known to be a loving and supportive community. This is not what we represent as a people and I am disheartened at the news of such deadly violence.”

“We will continue to work together with the security forces to make our streets safe. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.” he continued.

This murder is the 10th in Saint Kitts and Nevis in 2024, which raises concerns about the crime on the island.

February 29 – National student congress starts discussion on how to decrease crime and violence

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Youth Empowerment, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, said that hosting the Congress is “an indication that the Ministry of Youth Empowerment is very serious about our young people, and their voices [do] matter,” Dr. Hanley said.

The forum was a component of the government’s plan to tackle criminal activity as well as issues related to public health. The student leaders made numerous recommendations, such as setting up support centers to deal with bullying in schools, giving at-risk youth more access to education and employment opportunities, growing community policing initiatives, bolstering closed-circuit television surveillance, and more.

The forum continues today. 

Official Travel Advisories

U.S. Travel Advisory

As of April 21, 2024, there have been no additional changes to the official U.S. travel advisory issued on July 17, 2023.

The U.S. State Department only requires citizens to exercise normal precautions (Level 1 Advisory) when visiting the islands. This means the U.S. government considers it a safe destination for American travelers.

Canada Travel Advisory

Canada issued a brief update of its Travel Advisory for St. Kitts and Nevis on April 15, 2024. Travelers are encouraged to check the updated section: The Health section – travel health information.

The Canadian government informs citizens that there is petty crime, like pickpocketing and purse snatching. There are also violent crimes, like sexual assault and armed robbery.

Continue reading to learn about safety tips you can fallow when visiting the islands.

Areas to Avoid

Due to the growing tourism industry, more and more violent crimes have been recorded in the region.

The local government advises avoiding walking in sparsely populated areas, especially at night.

Pay special attention when walking around Basseterre and Sandy Point Town. 

Common Scams

Saint Kitts and Nevis do not have as many street scams as you can see in other Caribbean countries. It does not mean they do not exist. They do, but they are, let’s call them, more sophisticated. 

On these islands, scammers have been employing various methods such as phishing emails, card hacking, relationship scams, direct social media outreach, and business-related schemes to deceive victims.

According to local media, these scams typically involve emails falsely claiming that the recipient is entitled to a substantial sum of money, often under the guise of lottery winnings. Victims are instructed to send money to cover taxes and fees before receiving their supposed windfall.

Additionally, some individuals are lured into fraudulent romantic relationships under false pretenses, where they are financially exploited instead of experiencing genuine companionship.

Safety Tips for Saint Kitts and Nevis

While most visits to Saint Kitts and Nevis are typically uneventful, it’s essential to exercise caution at all times during your travels. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:

• Ensure that you use only licensed taxis for transportation.
• Store valuables and travel documents securely in a safe at your accommodation.
• Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, especially after dark.
• Exercise caution when attending late-night street parties or during the festival season.
• Refrain from carrying large sums of cash.
• LGBTQ+ travelers should refrain from displaying physical affection in public areas, as laws that decriminalize it are quite new. 
• Remain vigilant when walking alone, particularly in less crowded areas off the main roads.

Join our Travel Advice & Support FB Group Community

The post Is Saint Kitts and Nevis Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Starting April 13, the Jordanian government closed its airspace due to the imminent retaliation of Israel against Iran. Consequently, local and international carriers have had to cancel and reschedule flights over the short term.

Jordan itself is a wonderful travel destination considered to be mostly safe by multiple countries around the world. Entering the territory is still safe via land crossings from Saudi Arabia. 

The government said it’s closely monitoring the situation to determine when it can safely reopen its airspace, but it’s uncertain when it will happen. 

LATEST NEWS from Jordan:

Official travel advisories from multiple governments recommend avoiding visiting the Jordanian border with Syria and Iraq and Zarqa and Rusayfah due to terrorism concerns.

Other than that, the vast majority of the country’s territory is considered relatively safe to visit. 

Authorities have assured that they are committed to ensuring the well-being of all visitors with whom they are willing to share their unique culture and history.

“We understand that tensions around the world can raise concerns, but we believe in the power of travel to foster understanding and build bridges between nations,” said officials.

As Jordan airspace is closed for the time being, an alternative to entering the territory is by land from Saudi Arabia via private car or taxi services.

Areas to Avoid

Jordan is classified as a relatively safe country but it has regional advisories. That means that a few areas are considered risky, including – as it was mentioned before,- the Jordan-Syria and Jordan-Iraq borders, along with Zarqa and Rusayfah due to potential terrorist attacks.

Syrian refugee camps are not particularly dangerous but access to these territories is restricted by the local government.

Amman, the country’s capital, is generally considered safe day and night even for solo female travelers. However, due to political demonstrations that have been happening over the last few months near the Israel and US embassies, it’s recommended to avoid these areas.

Official Travel Advisories

US Travel Advisory

Although the US government ranks Jordan at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” which means it’s quite safe, it informs citizens that terrorist organizations have the potential to attack tourist venues, transportation centers, shopping malls, and similar facilities.

To minimize risks, monitor local news channels to learn about breaking events; be aware of your surroundings; and don’t take part in or be in close proximity to large demonstrations.

Not all Jordanian territory is safe. So check out our “Areas to Avoid” section to learn about what places you must refrain from visiting.  

Canada Travel Advisory

“Exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting Jordan. Land border crossing hours may be affected by the Israel-Hamas ongoing war. So, verify the status of the border you intend to cross before departure.

Large gatherings and demonstrations are mostly peaceful and typically occur on Fridays near places of worship, some refugee camps, and the American and Israeli embassies in Amman. But avoid taking part in them.

Domestic or international terrorists can attack Jordan at any time. So, make sure to register or update your personal information at the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to obtain information about “departure options.

Safety Tips for Jordan

These recommendations will help you stay safe.

• Monitor the national news to always be aware of the military decisions taken by Israel and Iran that can hurt Jordan.
• Don’t take part in political demonstrations.
• Dress modestly, especially on religious sites.
• Watch out for traffic; it can be dangerous when crossing roads. 
• Be vigilant in tourist areas to avoid pickpockets.
• Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, and typhoid are recommended.
• Don’t drink tap water. 
• Keep the local emergency numbers and the numbers of your embassy or consulate handy. 
• There have been reports of Bedouin men who woo single women in Petra and Wadi only to ask them for money later.
• Ask your taxi driver if the meter is in fils or dinars before traveling so you know how much you are expected to pay. Some drivers take advantage of the confusion. 

The post Is Jordan Safe To Visit Right Now? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

In a “religious-motivated extremism” act, a 16-year-old boy stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel and a priest in the middle of a livestreamed service at Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley on April 16, said NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb.

Only two days before this alleged “terrorist act,” six people were murdered with a “big blade” by Joel Cauchi (40) at Bondi Junction’s Westfield shopping center on April 13, plunging Australia into mourning.

The attacker, who was shot dead by a female police officer, also managed to injure 12 other people, including a nine-month-old baby girl whose mother couldn’t survive, according to New South Wales Health Minister Ryan Park.

Authorities haven’t linked these murderers to a terrorist attack, but they do have stated Cauchi was specifically targeting women.

The only male who died in this attack was security guard Faraz Tahir, 30, who was trying to protect women from being killed. 

The US Embassy and Consulates in Australia have issued a “message” for Americans advising them about the importance of remaining vigilant at all times, even in places where you would normally feel safe. 

When in Australia, pay special attention when surrounded by crowds in public or tourist venues, make sure you have a security plan ready, and leave areas with heightened police activity.

The post U.S. Embassy Warns Americans Visiting Australia To ‘Remain Vigilant’ Amid Recent Terrorist Attacks appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Travelers around the world have started to cancel, shorten, or postpone their holidays to these destinations due to safety concerns. 

Thus, how safe is it to travel to these countries as of today? Let’s review the current situation.  

Following an official encounter with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on April 17, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated that Israel will retaliate against Iran, which, according to Israeli human rights expert Gideon Levy, has the potential to ignite a “regional war.”

“It’s clear the Israelis are making a decision to act,” said Cameron. “We hope they do so in a way that does as little to escalate this as possible,“ Cameron told reporters speaking from Israel.

For its part, the Iranian government has warned it will strike back again if Israel or the US dare to attack its territory. If that happens, US military bases will also become targets for Iranian missiles.

These are the latest travel advisories the US and Canadian governments have issued to protect their citizens.

Official Travel Advisories

Egypt

US Travel Advisory

The US State Department still ranks the country at “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” This means travel is not banned but it’s discouraged.

Terrorism has prompted the government to urge citizens to avoid all travel to Gaza; the east of Cairo; the Sinai Peninsula (the Sharm El-Sheikh by air is an exception); or the Western Desert due to terrorism.

U.S.-Egyptian citizens have been arrested and the government has limited capacity to assist you if that happens.

Canada Travel Advisory

“Exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting Egypt, said the Canadian government on April 15. 

Most importantly, do not travel to the Northern Sinai; the Western Desert; the Libyan border area; or the northern side of the South Sinai governorate.

Canada’s main concerns include potential terrorist attacks and the current military operations carried out by the Egyptian government.

Jordan

US Travel Advisory

The US State Department hasn’t changed its travel advisory for Jordan since July 13, 2023, when it ranked the country as a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” which in practical terms means it’s not too dangerous to visit.

Due to the lack of consular capacity that allows the government to provide citizens with assistance in case of need, Americans are warned to avoid all travel to the Jordan-Syria border; the Iraq border; Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood due to terrorism and crime concerns. 

Canada Travel Advisory

On April 14, the Canadian government updated its travel advisory to “Exercise a high degree of caution” due to concerns regarding terrorism, civil unrest, and riots.

Domestic and transnational terrorist attacks can occur at any time, killing both security officials and citizens.

Counterterrorism operations are currently being carried out at government buildings, places of worship, airports, and tourist venues.

Cyprus

US Travel Advisory

The last time the US updated its travel advisory for Cyprus was July 26, 2023, and apparently, there’s no reason to change it as of yet.

Travelers to this island country are only advised to “exercise normal precautions,” which means the country is extremely safe.

To avoid getting into legal trouble, refrain from entering the United Nations buffer zone. 

Canada Travel Advisory

Similar to its American counterpart, the Canadian government also considers Cyprus a very safe country to visit.

Since 1974, there’s been a region called the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” in the country’s north. Canada doesn’t recognize this territory as an actual independent country. Thus, avoid visiting it because the government is unable to offer you consular assistance in case of need.

The post Is It Safe To Travel To Egypt, Jordan, Or Cyprus Right Now? appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Considering that mortar weapons and missiles can impact targets across these areas with no notice, the US State Department urges Americans to not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict and to reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. 

Those who despite this advisory still want to engage in travel are requested to be alert at all times, avoid overcrowded places, monitor media outlets for the latest information about potential attacks and even have a plan ready regarding funeral preferences, children custody, and a will describing the potential distribution of your properties.

Along with getting travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, Americans should also register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to help locate them in case of need. 

Gaza Strip

The US government declares itself to be unable to provide consular assistance to Americans in need in this territory. That’s why it urges citizens not to travel to Gaza. 

If you do so, make a plan without relying on US assistance, take with you enough food and medication for at least two weeks, and be mentally prepared to get trapped in this territory for an indefinite number of days due to unexpected closures of the pedestrian crossings between Egypt and Gaza. 

Other official recommendations include making plans with your family regarding children, property, and funeral wishes in case you get murdered.

West Bank 

Americans should “reconsider travel” to this territory due to terrorism and civil unrest.

Avoid all travel to “Ramallah, Jericho, Bethlehem, Highway 1, route 90 and route 443 between Jerusalem and Modi’in.”

Regarding traveling to high-risk areas such as multiple zones in West Bank, the government reminds Americans that it has limited to no capacity to help them in case of emergency. 

Israel 

Terrorist attacks in Israel are expected and inevitable. The US government advises nationals to reconsider visiting due to terrorism and civil unrest.

Americans must be aware of their surroundings at all times, avoid crowded areas, and make sure they can locate the closest bomb shelters in case of an unexpected terrorist attack.

When Will the Israel-Gaza War End?

It’s uncertain. Hope for a ceasefire is mostly gone following the murder of three sons and four grandchildren of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Gaza two days ago, along with other 60 family members killed since October.

Although the Israeli government claims to have killed most Hamas operatives, Haniyeh stated that those who think this war is over are “delusional.”

“Anyone who believes that targeting my sons will push Hamas to change its position is delusional,” Haniyeh told Al Jazeera TV. 

The post U.S. Government Issues Updated Travel Advisory For Israel Amid Attack Threat appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.