If you're dreaming of a summer getaway in Europe or the tropics, you might want to double-check your destination before booking that flight.
According to the Government of Canada's travel advisory site, several popular countries — including some of the most visited places in the world — currently have official warnings in effect. While many aren't considered no-go zones, the federal government is still urging Canadians to exercise a high degree of caution due to issues like terrorism threats, crime, political unrest, or health risks.
Here are some of the most surprising vacation destinations flagged by our government.
Italy
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: With the recent election of a new pope and the ongoing Jubilee year in Rome, crowds are expected to surge through the summer. The Government of Canada warns of a terrorism threat, especially around mass gatherings and religious events.
Tourists should also watch out for pickpockets, scams, and bag snatching in busy areas like train stations and tourist sites.
Costa Rica
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: Despite being a popular (year-round) tropical destination for Canadians, Costa Rica has seen a rise in violent crime, including armed robberies and carjackings, even in tourist areas. The Government of Canada also warns of volcanic activity near Poás and mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue.
Travellers should avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and take extra care with valuables and vehicle rentals.
Dominican Republic
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: The Government of Canada warns about violent crime, including armed robbery, sexual assault, and petty theft, even in popular resort areas like Punta Cana and Puerto Plata. Tourists are urged to stay in well-known areas, avoid travelling alone after dark, and use hotel-recommended transportation.
Extra caution is urged near the border with Haiti, which Canada has officially classified as a no-go zone (risk level: Avoid all travel). The land and sea borders are currently closed, and security conditions are highly unstable, particularly around Dajabón. Emergency services may be unavailable in that region.
Bahamas
Risk Level: Exercise a high degree of caution
What to know: A high crime rate, particularly in Nassau, the capital, and Freeport, the main city of Grand Bahama, has prompted the Canadian government to recommend extreme caution to travellers.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in tourist areas, particularly around cruise terminals and popular beach resorts, both day and night.
More violent crimes (armed robberies, burglaries, fraud, and sexual assaults) are also being reported, especially on the islands of New Providence and Grand Bahama. The government advises avoiding isolated areas after dark, including beaches, and sticking to secure tourist areas.
Denmark
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: Canada warns that Denmark faces a significant terrorism threat, with the national alert level currently set at 4 out of 5. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service maintains a public threat scale and communicates updates through media and its website.
Demonstrations are also common, especially in major cities, and while usually peaceful, they can disrupt transit or escalate without warning.
In Copenhagen, travellers should be cautious in Freetown Christiania, where recent gang-related violence linked to the drug trade has occurred. A fatal shooting happened there in August 2023, and photography is strictly prohibited. Some tourists have been assaulted or robbed after taking photos.
Germany
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: Germany is currently flagged for a persistent threat of terrorism. The Government of Canada notes that recent attacks in public places have included stabbings, shootings, and vehicle-ramming incidents, some of which have resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.
Travellers should be especially alert in areas with large crowds, including train stations, shopping centres, Christmas markets, demonstrations, and major public events.
Protests and labour strikes are frequent in Germany and can disrupt public transit or lead to road closures. While usually peaceful, they can escalate quickly, and authorities recommend avoiding these gatherings altogether.
France
Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Why it's flagged: France remains at its highest security alert level, "urgence attentat," due to a persistent terrorism threat. Attacks have targeted public spaces, including tourist areas, transit stations, and places of worship. The French government has deployed armed military patrols in high-traffic areas as part of Operation Sentinelle to deter potential threats.
Demonstrations and nationwide strikes are common and can lead to transportation delays, road closures, and sometimes violence. Travellers are advised to avoid protest zones and monitor local updates.
If you're heading to the French Alps or Pyrenees, be aware that mountain activities can be dangerous. Sudden weather changes, avalanches, and poorly marked trails pose serious risks. Local rescue operations can be delayed or costly, especially in remote areas, so make sure you're properly equipped and insured.
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