Knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make all the difference. Here are some summer getaways that might require more preparation than you thought:
Aruba, Bonaire & Curaçao
Colourful buildings on the waterfront of Bonaire.
Risk Level: Take normal safety precautions.
Why: Like many tropical and sub-tropical destinations, the islands are experiencing an increase in dengue cases, a disease spread by infected mosquitoes. The risk of dengue varies with the season, often peaking during rainy seasons, and can differ across regions within a country and by elevation. Symptoms, appearing four to seven days after a mosquito bite, range from flu-like conditions to severe cases that may lead to internal bleeding and organ failure. Travellers are advised to consult health professionals before their trip, take preventative measures against mosquito bites at all times, and monitor their health for symptoms during and after their visit.
Taiwan
Hualien City at night.
Risk Level: Take normal security precautions
Why: A 7.4 magnitude earthquake hit off the eastern coast near Hualien City on April 2, raising the possibility of aftershocks. Travellers in the area are advised to listen to local authorities, including possible evacuation orders. Taiwan's monsoon season, lasting from May to June, and the typhoon season from May to November, also exacerbate risks for travellers with potential flooding and severe storms. The weather events can disrupt travel, damage infrastructure, and impact the provision of essential services. Travellers are advised to remain flexible with their plans, monitor regional weather forecasts, and follow local authority directives to ensure safety.
France
Someone runs by the Paris Olympic countdown clock in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: France raised its security level to "attack emergency" on March 24, following an Islamic State-claimed terrorist attack in Moscow. The highest Vigipirate plan level means increased security and police presence nationwide, especially at borders and public places. The change is meant to enhance public and infrastructure safety. The upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris will see heightened security, major traffic disruptions, and large crowds, starting with public events on May 8 leading up to the Games. Visitors should stay informed through local media and follow the instruction of local authorities.
More at travel.gc.ca
Iceland
Bathers in the Blue Lagoon on the Reykjanes Peninsula of Iceland.
Risk Level: Take normal safety precautions.
Why: A volcanic eruption began on the Reykjanes Peninsula on March 16, leading to evacuations, including the town of GrindavÃk and the Blue Lagoon. The eruption is still active and poses threats with dangerous lava flows and potential for further eruptions without warning. Authorities have closed nearby roads to prevent access to the site. Volcanic gas clouds are expected to drift across southern Iceland, risking air quality and posing health dangers, especially for those with respiratory issues. While Keflavik International Airport remains operational, individuals in Iceland are advised to stay away from affected areas, heed local advisories, and monitor air quality.
Chile
The Museum of Fine Arts in Santiago, Chile.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Chile faces ongoing demonstrations and an uptick in civil unrest. Major cities like Santiago, Calama, San Pedro de Atacama, Pucon, Iquique, ValparaÃso, and Viña del Mar have also been highlighted as hotspots for petty crime. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and thefts from vehicles frequently occur in tourist areas, public transport hubs, and locations popular among visitors, including hotel lobbies and restaurants. Criminals often use distraction techniques, like spilling substances on victims to puncturing rental car tires, working in pairs or groups to rob unsuspecting victims.
Armed assaults and robberies are also a concern in Cerro Alegre, ValparaÃso and several neighbourhoods in Santiago. In the AraucanÃa and BiobÃo regions, politically motivated violence has led to protests, barricades, looting, arson attacks, and shootings, further compounding the risks for travellers.
Brazil
The Deputy Darcy Castelo de Mendonça Bridge, known as "Third Bridge," in Espirito Santo is the second tallest in Brazil.
Romulo Gomes Queiroz | Dreamstime
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Severe flooding struck southeastern Brazil on March 23, due to heavy rains and strong winds, causing casualties and extensive property and infrastructure damage, especially in Sao Paulo, Espirito Santo, and Rio de Janeiro. The disaster has triggered landslides, damaged buildings, and disrupted essential services such as transportation, power, fuel, water, food supplies, telecommunications, emergency response, and medical care. With more rain forecasted, authorities are conducting evacuations and urging those in affected areas to stay indoors, remain cautious, keep up with local news for updates, and obey any directives from local officials, including evacuation orders.
Madagascar
Visitors on Baobab Avenue at sundown in Morondava, Madagascar.
Sasithorn Phuapankasemsuk | Dreamstimes
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Tropical Cyclone Gamane hit northeast Madagascar on March 27, causing widespread destruction. Diego-Suarez faced severe impacts, with Tamatave also expected to experience significant effects. The cyclone has led to heavy rainfall, violent winds, flooding, and damage to buildings. Essential services, including transportation, power, water, food supplies, telecommunications, emergency, and medical care, are facing significant disruptions.
Indonesia
Someone walks on the pristine shore of Bawean Island.
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why: Indonesia experienced a 6.4 magnitude earthquake near Bawean Island in the Java Sea on March 22, 2024, causing infrastructure damage and casualties. The quake may lead to transportation challenges and disrupt access to essential services, with the potential for aftershocks. Moreover, the country faces ongoing political and social tensions, alongside a persistent terrorism threat. Specifically, non-essential travel to Indonesian Papua is advised against due to regular violent incidents, threats against foreigners, and kidnapping risks by militant groups, underlining the region's continued political unrest and safety risks. Travelers in or near affected areas should stay informed through local media, heed local authority advice, and reassess travel plans to Indonesian Papua.
Argentina
Colourful buildings on Caminito Street in the La Boca neighbourhood of Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Risk Level: Take normal safety precautions with regional risks.
Why: Buenos Aires sees frequent petty crimes and muggings, especially in tourist-heavy areas like Congreso, Constitución, and around landmarks like Florida Street, Plaza de Mayo, and the Recoleta Cemetery. Rosario has experienced a rise in homicides, primarily due to drug-related organized crime. Specific advice for La Boca includes staying on Caminito Street to avoid violent thefts, which are common in adjacent areas, and to steer clear of the neighbourhood after dark.
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An Irish police car parked on the pavement in Dublin city centre.