If you’re looking to escape Ontario’s cold winter and trade the snow for warm, tropical sunshine, it’s a good idea to check the latest travel advisories before making plans.
The Government of Canada offers a Travel Advice and Advisories page, providing essential information to help travellers make safe decisions when visiting abroad.
Here are some of the countries with updated advisories:
Risks: High rates of crime, especially in Freeport and Nassau.
Reasons: Armed robberies, burglaries, purse snatchings, theft, fraud and sexual assaults are the most common crimes committed against travellers in Freeport and Nassau.
Robberies can also occur in cruise ship terminals and in and around popular resort areas, even during daylight hours. Crime increases during the holidays.
The advisory suggests travellers avoid the “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night. People should not walk alone, particularly at night, and always stay alert. If robbers threaten you, stay calm and don’t resist.
Risks: High level of violent crime.
Reasons: Despite the presence of police to counter armed robbery, sexual assaults and murder, crimes of this nature are a problem in large cities and tourist areas.
This can be attributed to the widespread availability of firearms, which are used in most drug and gang-related crimes.
Nearly 50 areas in Greater Kingston, St. Catherine, Montego Bay and South Coast have a significant gang population where tourists are at risk of becoming victims of petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching.
Risks: High levels of violent crime and gang-related activity.
Reasons: Violent crime, including homicides, assaults, kidnappings, and armed robberies is prevalent throughout Trinidad and Tobago. Gang violence and drug-related crime are common, with incidents of gun-related crossfire occurring even during the day.
Popular tourist areas, including Port of Spain, have seen an increase in criminal activity targeting both locals and visitors.
On Dec. 30, 2024, authorities declared a nationwide state of emergency in response to escalating gang violence. During this period, security forces have increased their presence to search and detain individuals without warrants.
Tourists may also encounter risks such as fraudulent police officers and spiked food or drinks, which are sometimes used to facilitate theft or assault. Additionally, crimes like express kidnappings and online dating scams have been reported, where victims are targeted for robbery or extortion.
To ensure safety, travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings, remain vigilant in public areas, and carry identification at all times. Monitor local media for updates on the security situation.
The following areas are also part of the advisory:
Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.
Reasons: Violent crime can be found throughout Mexico, including homicides, kidnappings, and assaults. Sometimes, these crimes happen at popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos and Tulum) and Acapulco.
In addition, general elections are set for June 2, 2024. Around this time, there could be demonstrations, potential road closures, and a noticeable increase in military and police presence. Foreigners participating in protests also risk deportation.
To ensure safety, travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings, follow local authority guidelines, and stay updated with local media for news regarding the demonstrations.
Tourists can also fall victim to extortions through virtual kidnappings, where criminals find out enough personal information about their victims and then contact the target’s loved ones, claiming to have taken them hostage. Express kidnapping is also a tactic used where the victim is abducted and a small immediate ransom is demanded.
Criminal groups including drug cartels, are very active. Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common.
A regional advisory is in effect for Mexico, and it includes the following areas:
Risks: Petty crime, assaults and thefts from hotel rooms.
Reasons: Shortages of basic necessities including food, medicine and fuel.
The critical fuel shortages impact a wide range of services, making travel across the island extremely challenging.
Public transportation, including taxis, is often disrupted, leaving tourists with limited options for movement.
Some travellers have faced temporary stranded situations with rental cars. Even in Havana and resorts, intermittent tap water shortages add to the challenges.
Hotels and resorts, reliant on generators during power outages, may struggle to maintain their services. Fuel shortages can also affect government services.
Local authorities enforce rationing of food and medications, potentially affecting travellers.
Tourists are urged to bring basic necessities like toiletries and medication, maintain a supply of water, food, and fuel, and ensure access to a complete emergency kit.
Petty crime can happen to foreigners in these areas:
The Dominican Republic closed its air border with Haiti in the spring of 2024, and land and sea borders continue to remain closed to travellers.
It’s essential to be aware that the Embassy of Canada in Santo Domingo cannot assist in crossing into the Dominican Republic from Haiti through land or sea routes.
Risks: High levels of caution due to crime.
Reasons: Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common with tourists often being the targets. These incidents tend to increase during holiday periods.
Thefts can happen in various locations, including resorts, beaches, airports, bus stations, and public transportation. Even all-inclusive hotel rooms and hotel room safes are not immune to theft. Rental cars are also frequent targets.
There are instances of drive-by robberies, where thieves on motorcycles, scooters, or bicycles snatch bags and valuables from pedestrians. They may also reach into vehicles, including taxis, stopped at red lights to steal belongings.
