Canada updates travel advisories for popular European tourism destinations

Canada has updated several travel advisories for popular destinations.

School is out and the busy summer travel season has officially arrived. Many families plan a summer trip.

But travellers may want to check out the latest advisories before heading out.

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

Here are five countries with updated advisories:

Türkiye

Risks: Threat of terrorist attacks and chemical pesticides.

Reasons: The ongoing military activity in the area could result in disruptions to air traffic, including flight cancellations and airspace closures.

There is a threat of terrorism in Türkiye. There have been armed attacks in crowded places in major cities, such as Ankara and Istanbul. Additional attacks could occur at any time.

Travellers should also note that the 2026 NATO Summit will take place on July 7 and 8 in Ankara. There could be heightened security measures, restricted access to key venues and disruptions to transportation, including road closures. Ankara’s Esenboga International Airport is expected to implement heightened security measures around the summit, which may result in longer processing times.

There have been cases of poisoning linked to the use of chemical pesticides in tourist accommodations in Istanbul. Ensure that your accommodation is well-ventilated and well-maintained. Leave the room and inform the reception if you notice unusual smells. Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience unusual symptoms.

Costa Rica

Risks: Crime

Reasons: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently. Tourists are common targets for theft because they are perceived as being wealthy.

Crime against property, such as house burglary, theft from cars, and vehicle theft, is frequent. Passport theft is also extremely common and increases in frequency during the peak tourist seasons, from November to May and from July to August.

Car break-ins and theft are very common throughout the country. Rental and luxury vehicles are a target of choice. Theft commonly occurs in the parking lots of hotels, supermarkets, restaurants, stores, national parks and beaches.

There are reports of casualties due to the consumption of unregulated and adulterated alcohol containing high levels of methanol.

The hurricane season is from mid-May to the end of November in the Pacific, and from early June to the end of November in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

Switzerland

Risks: Crime and terrorism.

Reasons: Switzerland is considered a relatively safe country where travellers should take “normal safety precautions,” according to the advisory.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Thieves target tourists, particularly in crowded public areas such as airports, railway stations and trains. Criminals may try to distract you and take your attention away from your valuables or belongings.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Travellers should be particularly vigilant during sporting events, religious holidays, public celebrations, and major political events, such as elections.

South Korea

Risks: Tensions on the Korean Peninsula and road safety.

Reasons: South Korea is considered a relatively safe country where travellers should take “normal safety precautions,” according to the advisory.

Tensions on the Korean Peninsula could escalate with little notice and the security situation could deteriorate suddenly. Tensions may increase before, during and after North Korean nuclear and missile tests, military exercises or as the result of incidents or military activities at or near the inter-Korean border.

Crime against foreigners is generally low. Petty crime occurs in major metropolitan areas, tourist sites and public markets. Remain aware of your surroundings in crowded entertainment, nightlife and shopping districts.

The rate of fatal road accidents is very high. Check carefully before crossing the road. Vehicles may not stop at pedestrian crossings. Use underground or above-ground pedestrian crossings, where available.

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

Lead photo of Switzerland: Pixabay