Canada issues travel advisories to these European tourist spots
Published March 15, 2024 at 1:02 pm
As March break comes to an end, people may be thinking ahead to a spring or summer holiday.
Many European destinations hit peak tourism levels in the summer.
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 European countries with advisories:
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France
Risks: Elevated threat of terrorism.
Reasons: Over the past few years in France, several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred. These have resulted in many deaths and injuries. Further attacks are likely.
Expect an increased police or military presence in public places, including some tourist locations, particularly in Paris. The advisory suggests people stay aware of their surroundings when in public places. People should be particularly vigilant if attending large gatherings such as sporting events and religious celebrations or other public celebrations.
Denmark
Risks: Threat of terrorism and measles.
Reasons: Since the beginning of August 2023, there have been multiple incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Denmark. Violent extremists have since called for revenge against Denmark. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service currently assesses the threat of a terrorist attack at level four (significant) on a five-step scale.
There is an increase of measles activity worldwide, an updated advisory reads. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles infection. Anyone who is not immune against measles is at risk of being infected, especially when travelling abroad.
Netherlands
Risks: Threat of terrorism and measles.
Reasons: Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Attacks in the Netherlands cannot be ruled out, the advisory states. The Dutch government maintains a public alert system on terrorism and communicates threat-level changes online and through local media. As in Denmark, current threat level for the Netherlands is level four (“substantial”) on a scale of five.
The advisory for measles relates to a global rise in measles cases. There is an increased risk of getting a measles infection when you travel.
Sweden
Risks: Threat of terrorism and measles.
Reasons: Since the beginning of 2023, there has been an increase in incidents of public desecration of the Qur’an in Stockholm. On Aug. 17, 2023, the Swedish Security Service raised the national terrorist threat level from three (elevated) to four (high) on a five-step scale.
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places, the advisory suggests. Be particularly alert during public celebrations and demonstrations.
The advisory for measles relates to a global rise in measles cases. There is an increased risk of getting a measles infection when you travel.
Russia
Risks: Armed conflict at border with Ukraine and the risk of terrorism.
Reason: The Canadian government suggests people avoid all travel to Russia due to the impacts of the armed conflict with Ukraine, the risk of terrorism and the upcoming elections.
The presidential elections are from March 15 to 17. There could be disturbances or protests by opposition groups before, during, and after the elections. Violent extremists could plan to attack polling stations or other public places.
For a complete list of advisories and further information, see the website here.
Lead photo: Denmark by Nhi Uyển
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