Canada issues travel advisories for these popular international destinations

The busy summer travel season is quickly approaching and many people might consider a trip to an Asian country this year.

School holidays are a great time for a family vacation but travellers may want to check out the latest advisories before booking a trip.

While most countries are relatively safe, there are some things to consider before planning a trip. People may want to check out the latest travel advice and advisories.

The Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories page looks at trends and incidents affecting international travellers, monitors world events and collects updated reports from different sources.

The Travel Advice and Advisories page updates regularly.

Here are some of the Asian countries with advisories:

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Indonesia

Risks:  Political and social tensions and the threat of terrorism throughout the country, and a recent volcanic eruption.

Reason: Since April 16, 2024, Ruang Volcano in North Sulawesi province has erupted multiple times. Local authorities have raised the alert level to the highest level in the Indonesian system. Further eruptions may occur and tsunami warnings could be issued. Transportation and access to essential services are disrupted in the affected area.

The advisory also suggests people avoid non-essential travel to Indonesian Papua due to political tension and regular violent incidents.

Violent crime, such as armed robberies, occurs regularly in Indonesia. Be particularly cautious on the road from Banda Aceh to Medan, where armed robberies have occurred. Foreigners travelling alone and those travelling at night are at particular risk.

Malaysia

Risks: Threat of criminality, terrorism and recent volcanic eruption.

Reason: Due to the ongoing situation in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, calls for protests on Fridays and weekends may continue. Large-scale demonstrations are expected to continue.

Violent crime against foreigners is not common. Petty crime, however, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and snatch-and-grab incidents is prevalent, especially in tourist areas and at the airport.

The Ruang Volcano eruption in Indonesia is also impacting Malaysia. Ash from the volcano has disrupted flights in the region due to visibility concerns. Further eruptions may occur and tsunami warnings could be issued.

Vietnam

Risks: High rate of petty crime.

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. It’s most prevalent in larger cities and may increase during major public holidays.

Criminals work alone or in groups and may use various techniques to distract travellers and steal belongings. They may try to grab a bag and other valuables while passing on a motorbike or slash a bag in crowded streets and markets.

Violent crimes targeting foreigners are rare but can occur. In some cases, criminals have used weapons such as knives and razors.

Philippines

Risks: Crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping.

Reasons: Extremists have been active in southern Philippines for several years. There is a serious threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and piracy in the Sulu archipelago, including in the waters south of the island of Palawan.

In recent years, bombing incidents have caused several casualties and property destruction in Jolo.

The advisory suggests people avoid all travel to parts of Mindanao island and Sulu archipelago due to the presence of extremist groups, serious threats of attacks, kidnapping, piracy and violent clashes between the security forces and rebel groups.

The Ruang Volcano eruption in Indonesia could also impact flights to or in the Philippines. Ash from the volcano has disrupted flights in the region due to visibility concerns. Further eruptions may occur and tsunami warnings could be issued.

Pakistan

Risks: Unpredictable security situation, threat of terrorism, civil unrest, sectarian violence and kidnapping.

Reasons: There have been ongoing political demonstrations since November 2022. Federal elections were on Feb. 8, 2024 and security forces continue to be on high alert in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. The security situation is evolving and remains unpredictable.

Travellers should consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before travel to get personalized health advice for infectious diseases such as polio.

India

Risks: The threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country.

Reasons: General elections are scheduled between April 19 and June 1, 2024. Demonstrations could occur before, during and after the elections. Disruptions to traffic and public transportation may also occur. Curfews may be imposed without notice.

Recent tensions between Canada and India have led to calls for protests and some negative sentiment towards Canada in traditional media and on social media.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common. Criminals may target foreigners, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

Thailand

Risks: Ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country.

Reasons: Separatist insurgents periodically perpetrate criminally and politically motivated attacks in the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla and Yala.

These deadly attacks include shootings, bombings and arson, and are usually directed at the military, government and security buildings and personnel. They have also occurred in a variety of public places.

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

Lead photo of Girisubo, Jogja, Indonesia: ahmad syahrir