With winter officially starting on December 21, 2024, and continuing until March 20, 2025, many Canadians are looking for warmer destinations to escape the snow and bone-chilling cold. As travelers plan their winter holidays, it’s important to consider safety, especially when heading to popular warm-weather spots.
The Canadian government issues Travel Advice and Advisories to help Canadians make informed decisions about international travel. These advisories are updated regularly and highlight potential risks, ranging from political unrest to criminal activity, ensuring that travelers are aware of current safety conditions. Below are some countries with updated travel advisories for Canadians:
Mexico
Risks: High levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.
Reasons: Recent violent clashes between rival armed groups in cities like Culiacán and Mazatlán have led to increased violence in surrounding areas. Despite efforts by Mexican authorities to protect major tourist destinations, violent crimes still occur in major cities, popular tourist areas, and resorts.
Advice: Travelers should exercise caution, particularly when traveling on highways and in cities experiencing criminal activity.
Vietnam
Risks: High rate of petty crime.
Reasons: Petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse-snatching are common, especially in major cities and during public holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year), which falls on January 29, 2025. Criminals often operate in groups and use distractions to steal valuables, including snatching bags from passing motorbikes or cutting bags in crowded areas.
Advice: Tourists should remain vigilant, especially in busy urban areas, and take extra precautions against theft.
Costa Rica
Risks: Crime, particularly petty theft.
Reasons: Tourists are frequent targets for theft due to their perceived wealth. Car break-ins, pickpocketing, and purse-snatching are common, with thieves often working in teams to distract victims. Luxury rental cars are especially targeted by thieves.
Advice: Travelers should secure their belongings, avoid leaving valuables in cars, and stay cautious in tourist hotspots.
South Africa
Risks: Significant level of serious crime.
Reasons: South Africa has one of the highest crime rates globally. Violent crimes, including muggings, armed assaults, rape, and murder, occur frequently and can involve foreigners. Carjackings, robberies, and assaults are common, particularly in areas popular with tourists. In addition, rolling blackouts (known as load shedding) have led to increased risks of opportunistic theft.
Advice: Travelers should avoid high-risk areas, particularly after dark, and remain alert to their surroundings at all times.
Nicaragua
Risks: Political instability, civil unrest, and crime.
Reasons: Since April 2018, Nicaragua has experienced periods of political unrest, leading to violence and deaths. The 2021 presidential elections saw a crackdown on dissent, with government repression of opposition and political activities. Foreigners are prohibited from engaging in political activities, including protesting or voicing dissent on social media, which could lead to detention or deportation.
Advice: Travelers should avoid political demonstrations, stay informed about the political situation, and be cautious when discussing political topics publicly.
As the winter season continues, travelers are encouraged to check the Canadian government’s Travel Advice and Advisories page regularly for updated information. Safety should always be a priority when planning trips abroad, especially during the busy holiday season.
Related topics:
Weather Risks Loom for Early Christmas Travelers, But Most Will Avoid Major Disruptions
Holiday Travel Trends to Watch for 2024: Record-Breaking Intentions and Changing Preferences