On March 11, the World Health Organization officially classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, indicating that every location is likely to be affected, though the exact timing and impact cannot be predicted. Non-essential international and domestic travel should be deferred due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global logistical environment, healthcare systems in all locations, the global economy, the potential for second-order security issues in the short, medium and longer term, as well as the risk of infection with COVID-19. A new virus, SARS-CoV-2, is the cause of COVID-19 disease. The WHO is still learning about the virus and the illness it causes. The disease is spreading from person to person, through contact with infected respiratory droplets. The disease is a mild illness for most; however, it can be severe or fatal to high risk groups.
For more information on confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, refer to the latest Situation Report on the World Health Organization (WHO) website by clicking here. For more general information on the outbreak and WHO’s response, click here.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE
A number of countries have relaxed some restrictions that aimed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This includes the relaxation of restrictions on internal movement, reopening of businesses and a resumption of some domestic and international travel. Nevertheless, strict measures remain in place, or are being reimposed, in some locations where there is increasing case activity. In some locations all travel should continue to be deferred, while for others essential travel can resume after undertaking an individual risk assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes.
Countries around the world are implementing entry restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. For the most upto-date information on current entry restrictions, please visit IATA’s “Government Measures Related to Coronavirus (COVID19)” website by clicking here.
FROSCH TRAVEL RESOURCES
AMERICAS
UNITED STATES
Several states are reporting cases of the new B.1.1.7 variant, while a surge in cases continues. Many locations with extremely limited acute care bed availability, and hospitals are either near or at capacity. Restrictions on movement and gatherings are in place in some areas. Health authorities have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing and managing people who have COVID-19 and their contacts. Follow all directives. To prevent infection, limit face-to-face interactions with other people as much as possible, pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face. Wear a mask whenever required to and consider wearing a mask whenever in public. Do not travel if you are sick.
NEW CDC COVID-19 TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL AIR PASSENGERS ENTERING OR TRANSITING THE US
On January 12, the CDC announced all passengers entering the United States will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test (NAAT or antigen) taken within 72 hours of departure, effective January 26. As of right now, the new regulation will apply to all air passengers arriving in the United States, regardless of citizenship or residence; travelers transiting the US on a connecting flight will also be subject to the requirement.
The CDC has indicated negative results from either a molecular PCR test or the less reliable rapid antigen tests will be accepted. The test result must be in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy) of a laboratory test and must include information that identifies the person, a specimen collection date and the type of test administered, as well as verification information, such as the name and contact information for the laboratory that performed the test. As an alternative, passengers may present documentation proving they have previously contracted and recovered from COVID-19. Travelers who have received the COVID-19 vaccine will still be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery.
The requirement will apply to all passenger flights, including private aviation. It will be the responsibility of the airline to confirm a COVID-19 negative test result or documentation of recovery for all passengers before boarding, and to deny boarding if such is not presented. Passengers must also fill out a CDC attestation form.
For answers to frequently asked questions regarding the new requirements, click HERE to visit the CDC’s website.
POLITICAL UNREST SURROUNDING PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION
Through January 20, travelers in Washington DC, as well as in state capitals and large cities nationwide, should exercise caution and avoid demonstrations related to the November 2020 Presidential Election between now and the upcoming Presidential Inauguration ceremony on January 20. On January 6, supporters of President Donald Trump forcibly entered the US Capitol, briefly overrunning security forces, in an effort to halt Congress’ certification of election results that saw Joe Biden formally named President-elect. At least five people have died as a result of the unrest. A heightened security presence can be expected in the DC metropolitan area and in front of key federal and local government buildings nationwide.
UNITED AIRLINES TO RESUME OPERATIONS OUT OF JFK
Due to new travel restrictions and the continued impact of COVID-19 on customer demand, United Airlines has delayed the start of service between JFK and SFO/LAX from February 1 until February 28. The new service will operate out of Terminal 7 using the reconfigured Boeing 767-300ER aircraft, offering customers an extended premium cabin featuring 16 additional United Business class seats with all-aisle-access seating, bringing the total premium cabin seat count to 46. The aircraft will also feature 22 United Premium Plus seats, 47 Economy Plus seats and 52 Economy seats.
CAL IFORN IA Travelers in California state over the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by high winds. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a high wind alert and wind advisory for January 17-19. Gusts with speeds of up to 50 miles per hour are expected to affect East Bay, Monterrey Bay, North Bay, San Benito, San Francisco, Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties during this period. Northern and central areas of the state will be affected first, with southern locations experiencing similar conditions thereafter. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and monitor weather forecasts through reliable local media sources.
VIRGINIA
Travelers are advised to plan routes bypassing a pro-gun rally in Richmond, Virginia in the coming hours. Participants are expected to arrive in Richmond at staggered times to ease traffic. Expect sizeable gatherings from 12:00 PM local time outside the Science Museum of Virginia. A heightened police presence in the vicinity of gatherings should also be expected. A State of Emergency has been declared by the Richmond authorities ahead of the event. Subsequent restrictions include a ban on carrying weapons at demonstrations, as well as road closures in the vicinity of Capitol Square and the Robert E Lee Memorial.
WASHINGTON DC
Travelers in Washington DC should anticipate disruption in the coming days due to ongoing security procedures affecting traffic within the city. Following unruly protests on January 6, authorities have begun to install barriers and fencing around the capital. Security throughout the city has been increased, with the mayor extending a “Public Emergency” until January 21.
US & CANADA
Authorities have extended the closure of the US-Canada border to non-essential travel through February 21 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border freight movement is still permitted. All travel to Canada should be deferred, unless coming directly from the US for essential purposes or otherwise exempted from COVID-19-related restrictions. Non-essential travel to the US, where COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect, should also be deferred.
US & MEXICO
The US and Mexican governments have extended the closure of their mutual border to non-essential travel through February 21 amid the COVID-19 pandemic; however, essential travel, including for medical purposes and freight transportation, is still permitted. Non-essential travel to both countries should be deferred.
COLOMBIA
Travelers are advised to plan journeys bypassing a protest over COVID-19-related restrictions in Cartagena on January 21. Protesters are expected to gather from 5:00 PM local time at the Seguros Bolivar building to denounce lax enforcement of lockdown measures. Although the protest is likely to pass off peacefully, an increased security presence is likely and local scuffles between activists and police cannot be ruled out.
GUATEMALA
Travelers in Guatemala City should plan journeys bypassing planned demonstrations on January 18 and 20, as a precaution. While the gatherings should pass off peacefully, local unrest may occur if they are forcibly dispersed. Any such disturbances would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
MEXICO
On January 14-17, travelers in Veracruz should plan journeys accounting for closures of downtown areas in 12 municipalities. During this period, the centers of Actopan, Cazones, Espinal, Gutierrez Zamora, Tecolutla, Orizaba, Papantla, Poza Rica, San Rafael, Tihuatlan, Veracruz City and Xalapa will be closed from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time daily. There will, however, be exceptions for local residents traveling to and from their workplaces. Authorities aim to decrease mobility as part of efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.
URUGUAY
All travel to Uruguay should be deferred and travelers in country should monitor developments following the extension of entry restrictions. Authorities have extended an ongoing closure of air, land, and sea borders to travelers through January 31. This measure does not apply to Uruguayan Nationals and permanent residents who purchased a travel ticket before January 6. All international travelers able to enter the country are required to present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
President Faustin-Archange Touadera announced the imposition of a nationwide nightly curfew from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time on January 7. The measure was reportedly prompted by rising insecurity linked to ongoing militia violence in rural areas and political tensions over the recent general elections. In-country travelers should continue to exercise caution and abide by all official directives in the coming weeks.
Essential movement in the city center of Bangui can proceed, but travelers should be prepared to stand fast on January 18-20 amid validation of the results of the December 27, 2020 Presidential Election. Tensions remain high following a thwarted rebel attack on January 13 by the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) group in Bimbo district and the PK12 and PK15 areas of the city. Travelers should remain vigilant and strictly abide by curfew hours in place from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time.
EAST TIMOR
All travel to East Timor should be deferred amid stringent COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended a domestic travel ban between the Oecusse Ambeno Special Administrative Region (RAEOA) and the rest of the country until 11:59 PM local time on January 18. Additionally, a nationwide State of Emergency remains in place until February 1. During this period, all travelers permitted to enter the country are required to undergo COVID-19 testing and to complete a 14-day quarantine at a government-designated facility.
ETHIOPIA
Travelers in Addis Abba are reminded of the need for enhanced vigilance after a reported recent spike in violent crime. This follows a notice issued by the US Embassy in Ethiopia. Recent incidents have taken place in Entoto and Yeka parks, as well as Gulele Botanical Garden and other areas. Reports suggest that violent crime is increasingly associated with drugs.
Travelers in Benishangul-Gumuz state over the coming weeks should continue to exercise caution and monitor developments following fresh attacks on civilians by unidentified gunmen. Such incidents have recently increased across Metekel zone, where a curfew between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM local time has been imposed until further notice. Recently, at least 27 people on January 13 were reportedly killed, and several others injured, in Metekel’s Dibate district. Although such violence mainly targets locals, foreign travelers may face incidental risks. Strong local support networks and good journey management procedures are recommended.
Travelers should plan journeys accounting for disruption on January 18-20 during the Timket festival (the Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany). Celebrations, including public gatherings, can be expected countrywide and are liable to disrupt road travel. The main celebratory events are expected to be held in Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Gondar and Lalibela. There will be an increased security force presence during the festival, particularly where crowds are gathered. Precedent indicates that there is potential for outbreaks of unrest during the festival. Travelers should also be aware of, and take precautions against, the increased risks of petty crime in crowded areas.
IRAN
Essential travel to Iran can resume subject to a preliminary individual assessment accounting for potential sudden changes. International commercial flights are operating, though at a reduced schedule. Although foreign nationals are permitted entry, visa-on-arrival services remain suspended. Arriving passengers must present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken a maximum of 96 hours prior to entry. Although domestic restrictions have been broadly eased, these vary between cities and provinces, and may be re-imposed at short-notice.
ISRAEL
Travelers should abide by official directives following the imposition of a fresh COVID-19-related lockdown from January 8 until at least January 22. This will involve the closure of all non-essential shops and schools. Indoor gatherings will be limited to five people. Traveling abroad will also be prohibited unless it is for essential purposes. Arriving travelers will be subject to up to 14 days of quarantine in a state-run hotel.
From January 12 through February 3, rail travelers should anticipate disruption and reconfirm schedules during planned maintenance work. This will involve the closure of all train stations south of Tel Aviv Ha’Hagana Station, including Jerusalem Station. Tel Aviv Ha’Hagana Station itself will not be affected. Additional bus services will be provided during this period.
LEBANON
Through January 25, travelers should abide by official directives amid tighter COVID-19-related restrictions. The current nationwide lockdown will be replaced by a stricter lockdown beginning at 5:00 AM local time on January 14 through 5:00 AM local time on January 25. The lockdown will be accompanied by a 24-hour curfew. Heightened security can be expected in major urban centers, as the military has been deployed to ensure the enforcement of restrictions.
LESOTHO
Travelers in Lesotho should abide by official directives amid a tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown will be in place from January 14 until at least January 27, with a nightly curfew from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time. Most border-crossing, including international commercial flights, will be suspended during this period. Heightened security can be expected in major urban centers, as security forces will be deployed to ensure the enforcement of restrictions.
MALDIVES
Travelers should anticipate opposition protests in Male on January 21, when the High Court is due to announce its verdict in a case involving former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom (in office 2013-18). Yameen is appealing his conviction in November 2019 in a corruption case, for which he was sentenced to five years in prison. All opposition demonstrations should be avoided due to the potential for local disturbances.
MALI
An explosion targeted a UN peacekeeping mission (MINUSMA) convoy on January 13 near the village of Bambara Maounde. The incident occurred as MINUSMA members were conducting a security operation in the area. This follows an attack on January 8 when six French soldiers were injured in a car bombing in Isey Forest, around 30 miles south-west of Hombori. Similarly, two French soldiers were killed in a bomb attack outside Menaka on January 2, while an attack in Hombori killed three French soldiers on December 28, 2020. Travelers are advised to adopt stringent security precautions in extreme risk regions.
NIGERIA
From January 13-27, travelers in Lagos should expect significant disruption during the maintenance of the Third Mainland Bridge and plan journeys accordingly. Authorities will close the bridge for Lagos Island-bound traffic, including the Adekunle-bound slip road. On January 11, authorities also announced the indefinite closure of the Airport Bridge at Toyota bus stop on the Oshodi-Isolo Expressway following a fuel tanker explosion and large fire that damaged the bridge on January 7.
Travelers in Anambra state should abide by an ongoing curfew from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM local time, in effect until at least January 18. This was prompted by recent communal violence between the Aguleri and Umuleri communities over a land dispute. Buildings and vehicles were set alight. Previous such clashes have led to fatalities. Authorities have warned that violators of the curfew will be charged.
SAMOA
Travelers should plan journeys accounting for intermittent disruption during the ongoing rainy season until the end of April. Heavy rainfall, flooding, and related landslides can be expected in the country during this period, particularly in low-lying and coastal areas. Recently, heavy rain and significant flooding have resulted in road closures and travel disruption in Apia and other parts of the country. Travelers should reconfirm flight schedules and the status of routes before setting out.
SAUDI ARABIA
Authorities on January 17 announced that three civilians were injured, and one vehicle was damaged, in al-Ardha district, after a military projectile launched by the Yemen-based Houthi rebel group landed in the area. Earlier, on January 15, authorities intercepted three armed drones launched towards the kingdom. The Saudi Air Defense System remains capable of intercepting most projectiles; however, the latest incidents underscores the need to exercise caution around potential targets, including government and military interests, energy infrastructure and airports.
SOUTH AFRICA
Travelers in South Africa in the coming weeks should anticipate disruption linked to rotating scheduled power outages, locally known as “load shedding.” State-owned electricity provider Eskom has said that the latest round of load shedding, which began on January 14, is likely to continue until April, amid an unexpected loss of powergeneration capacity. Temporary disruption to cellular and mobile services is possible during periods of load shedding. Criminals are also liable to take advantage of power outages to carry out crime, such as vehicle and residential robberies and muggings. Extended periods of power cuts may also spur protests.
Travelers undertaking road travel in South Africa should exercise caution during overland travel following fresh attacks on freight truck drivers. On January 15, assailants shot at the drivers of two trucks on Swartkoppies Bridge in Alberton, then set the trucks on fire. No casualties were reported. This follows an earlier attack in Alberton in December 2020. Attacks on freight truck drivers have spiked since November 2020 amid calls by the National Truck Drivers Founders and All Truck Drivers Foundation (ATDF) for foreign drivers to vacate their jobs. Further attacks on drivers and associated unrest are likely to continue.
TONGA
Travelers are advised to continue to defer all travel to Tonga amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended a State of Emergency until at least 8:00 PM local time on February 15. A nationwide nightly curfew remains in place from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM local time. Social distancing measures also remain in place, while gatherings remain limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
TUNISIA
Travelers in Tunisia in the coming days should continue to anticipate nationwide socio-economic protests coinciding with the tenth Arab Spring anniversary. Related gatherings took place for a second night on January 17 in several areas of Tunis, as well as in Bizerte, Gafsa, Jilma, Kairouan, Kasserine, Siliana, and Sousse. Looting and roadblocks were reported, and police used tear gas to disperse participants. The military has been deployed to several cities to guard key installations. Further unrest is possible, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
LUNAR NEW YEAR
Travelers should follow all official directives regarding the annual Lunar New Year (Spring Festival) holiday period from February 11-17. Some local authorities have advised against domestic travel during this period, while others have imposed movement restrictions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Further restrictions may be issued at short notice in the coming weeks. Heightened demand for transport and traffic congestion should still be expected, particularly at the beginning and end of the holiday period. Those undertaking domestic travel between February 11 and 17 should make bookings well in advance and plan journeys accounting for potential short-notice restrictions and travel disruption.
AFGHANISTAN
Essential travel to Afghanistan can resume, subject to a preliminary assessment accounting for potential sudden changes. International flights are operating at Kabul’s Hamid Karzai International Airport (KBL). Foreign nationals holding valid entry visas are permitted to enter and do not require a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test; however, the latter may be required for departure from Afghanistan depending on destination requirements. Asymptomatic passengers are recommended to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival. Most domestic measures, including restrictions on intercity and interprovincial travel, have been eased.
A vehicle belonging to the Ministry of Communications struck a landmine on Shura Street, Police District (PD) 6, in Kabul at around 8:35 AM local time on January 18. A second explosion was reported at around 10:10 AM in the Khair Khanaarea (PD 11). No casualties have been reported, and no group has so far claimed responsibility for either incident. The attacks highlight the persistent threat of militancy and extreme travel risks in Kabul, as well as the need to coordinate all essential movements with a 24/7-dedicated and professional security provider.
AUSTRALIA
Through January 22, travelers in Greater Brisbane should continue to abide by official COVID-19-related directives. The ongoing lockdown will end at 6:00 PM local time on January 11, though some measures will persist through January 22. Movement restrictions on residents of Brisbane and the surrounding local government areas of Ipswich, Logan, the Moreton Bay Region, and Redland will be lifted; however, social distancing regulations will continue and face masks remain mandatory indoors.
Travelers in Queensland state should account for residual disruption due to adverse weather caused by the passage of former tropical cyclone Imogen. The weather system has been downgraded and is forecast to continue moving towards the northeastern coastline in the coming days before dissipating near Townsville. Authorities have issued flood warnings for the coming week due to the risk of overflowing rivers from continued heavy rainfall. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes with local contacts before setting out on overland journeys.
Continue to plan journeys in Western Australia state accounting for ongoing bushfires and associated danger warnings. A Severe Fire Danger warning is in place for southern coastal areas of the Central West weather district on January 18. A bushfire Emergency Warning (immediate action required) issued on January 16 for parts of Armadale, Kwinana and Serpentine-Jarrahdale has been lifted. The Kwinana Freeway has reopened, and train services have resumed following disruption on the Mandurah line. Electricity outages were reported in thousands of residences in the affected areas.
BANGLADESH
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should avoid all gatherings related to municipal elections, due to the potential for unrest. The second phase of the polls will be held on January 16 in more than 60 municipalities within Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Mymensingh, Rajshahi, Rangpur and Sylhet divisions. Voting will take place between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM local time. The third and fourth phases will respectively be held on January 30 and February 14. Travelers should expect heightened security on polling days and follow all official directives.
CHINA
Travelers in China, particularly northern, western and central areas, should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption during the ongoing winter season, which will last until March. Heavy snow, dense fog, and poor visibility may affect flight and train schedules at short notice, as well as impede road movement. Meanwhile, heavy smog, typically caused by pollution from increased coal use in winter, can result in poor visibility and related flight disruption. Adverse weather conditions can also interrupt power supply, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas.
Travelers should continue to defer non-essential travel to Langfang, Shijiazhuang and Xingtai following the imposition of further local COVID-19-related restrictions. The stay at home notice has been extended until January 19 in Shijiazhuang and Nangong county. Those in Guan county must stay home until January 25. Dingzhou county has been downgraded to a ‘low risk’ location.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should monitor developments linked to the sustained regulatory efforts against suspected unlawful activism or assembly and avoid any potentially problematic activities. On January 14, at least 11 suspects, including a Ukrainian national, were arrested under the Criminal Procedure Ordinance for allegedly assisting the illegal escape of 12 local activists. This follows the recent detention of at least 50 anti-government activists, including a US national, for alleged violations of the National Security Law (NSL). Tensions fueled by such developments remain high within activist circles and may motivate small-scale gatherings in the coming weeks.
INDIA
Travelers should anticipate travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season which will last until February. Dense fog and poor visibility can cause significant disruption to flights, train services, and road journeys. Northern and eastern states such as Asom, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, as well as the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Chandigarh, and Delhi, typically experience the worst of the adverse winter conditions. Major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai, may also be affected.
Travelers should anticipate significant disruption amid ongoing farmers’ protests in the National Capital Region (NCR), which includes New Delhi and parts of Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh states. Fresh talks on January 15 between the government and farmers’ unions failed to break a deadlock. The next round of talks is scheduled for January 19. Farmers’ groups will meet on January 18 to discuss protest plans, including for Republic Day (January 26), when protesters intend to travel to New Delhi on tractors for a rally.
INDONESIA
Travelers are advised to continue to exercise caution in West Sulawesi province following a magnitude 6.2 earthquake that struck around 22 miles south of Mamuju City early on January 15. The death toll has risen to at least 81 people, while hundreds of others are injured and in need of treatment. Rescue operations are ongoing, with at least 18 people having been rescued from under rubble. Power outages as well as telecommunications network disruption have been reported in Mamuju and Majene cities. Those in affected areas should follow official directives and reconfirm the status of routes prior to travel.
Travelers are advised to plan journeys avoiding protests in Tarakan City on January 19 due to a risk of local disruption and unrest. Local landowners and other protesters are set to gather outside the local legislature (DPRD) building and Juwata International Airport (TRK) to demand compensation for the land on which the airport was built. Travelers should reconfirm the status of roads and flights prior to departing for the airport.
Travelers should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption during the ongoing monsoon season. This is expected to last until April across most of Indonesia and is likely to peak in January-February. Prolonged periods of heavy rainfall since mid-November 2020 have caused significant flooding and landslides in parts of Aceh, Banten, North Sulawesi, North Sumatra, West Java provinces, as well as Kalimantan. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out, as further weather-related disruption is likely until the end of the season.
JAPAN
Travelers in Tokyo and neighboring Chiba, Kanagawa, and Saitama prefectures should follow all official directives amid a State of Emergency until February 7. As part of the measures, restaurants and bars are to close by 8:00 PM local time, and residents are requested to refrain from non-essential outings. Authorities have also urged companies to encourage 70% of their commuting staff to work from home. Additionally, the number of people at spectator events will be capped at 50% or a maximum of 5,000.
Through March, travelers in Japan, particularly those in northern and northeastern areas, should plan journeys accounting for disruption during the ongoing winter season. At least 13 people have been killed due to adverse weather conditions since early January. Short-notice disruption and/or interruptions in power supply, particularly in smaller cities and rural locations, remain possible.
Beginning January 20, travelers should reconfirm itineraries and defer inbound journeys amid the latest COVID-19- related entry restrictions. Japan’s special business travel arrangements with Brunei, Cambodia, China, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam have been suspended; however, travelers with existing visas under these special arrangements (except those who have stayed in the UK or South Africa in the past 14 days) can enter Japan until 11:59 PM local time on January 20. Details can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
KAZAKHSTAN
Journeys should be planned accounting for disruption due to ongoing adverse weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, fog and severe low temperatures. The Kazakh Meteorological Centre (Kazhydromet) has issued warnings until at least January 18 for Aktobe, Atyrau, Kostanay, Kyzylorda, Mangystau, North Kazakhstan, Turkestan and Zhamby provinces. Restrictions on certain roads have been introduced. Poor weather conditions are liable to result in further short-notice road closures and disruption to public utility and emergency response services.
MALAYSIA
Travel to Malaysia should be deferred amid an ongoing State of Emergency through August 1. The measure, declared on January 12 by Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, allows for the creation of a special committee to deal with the COVID-19 crisis. Travelers in country should adhere to tighter nationwide movement restrictions coming into effect on January 13.
Travelers should anticipate intermittent travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during Malaysia’s monsoon season, which usually lasts until March. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and related landslides can be expected nationwide during this period. Most-affected areas include Johor, Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu states on Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah and Sarawak states on Borneo Island. While flooding and associated disruption can be more protracted in rural areas, urban centers such as Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru (are not immune. Travelers are advised to reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
NEPAL
Through February 5, travelers in Nepal should continue to avoid demonstrations linked to the dissolution of the House of Representatives. The opposition Nepali Congress (NC) party will hold nationwide protests, including on January 16 in all municipalities and on January 21 in all ward levels. In addition, a faction of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP), led by former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, has called for demonstrations through February 5, including in Kathmandu.
NEW ZEALAND
Through February 1, passengers transiting Kapiti Coast Airport (PPQ), which serves Paraparaumu, should monitor developments and continue to reconfirm the status of flights despite the resumption of operations at the facility. The airport will operate at reduced hours until February 1 due to staff shortages. Details are unavailable, but operating hours may depend on the availability of specialist staff. Further intermittent closures are possible. The airport was closed on December 13 following security threats posted on social media.
OMAN
Travelers are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Oman due to COVID-19-related restrictions. The country’s land borders will be closed from 6:00 PM local time on January 18 until at least January 25. This measure may be extended, depending on the epidemiological situation. International flights remain operational with COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing requirements.
PAKISTAN
Travelers should avoid demonstrations in the coming weeks by the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition due to the risk of unrest. These are expected across urban centers. The party is demanding the resignation of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government by January 31. If demands are not met, PDM supporters plan to march to Islamabad. A related rally by PDM is planned on January 19 outside the Election Commission. Traffic disruption and local scuffles between protesters and police are possible during associated events.
PHILIPPINES
Travelers should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption in the coming days amid flooding caused by the passage of a low-pressure weather system. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has said the weather system is unlikely to intensify into a tropical depression but may exacerbate ongoing flooding and trigger landslides. Moderate-to-heavy rainfall can be expected in Caraga, Davao, Soccsksargen and Eastern Visayas regions until mid-day on January 19. Travelers should ensure robust journey management plans are in place prior to setting out in affected areas.
THAILAND
Those in southern provinces should maintain flexible itineraries accounting for disruption during the southeastern monsoon period until at least March. Heavy rain has triggered flash floods and landslides, prompted road closures, and disrupted train services in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, Pattani, Satun, Songkhla, Trang and Yala. If traveling during this period, reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
TURKEY
The Turkish State Meteorological Service has issued warnings for heavy snowfall until at least January 20 across western Turkey. Affected areas include Istanbul, Kocaeli, Sakarya, Yalova and Bursa provinces. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes and transport before setting out and allow additional time for journeys.
VIETNAM
All travel to Vietnam should be deferred amid ongoing COVID-19-related entry restrictions. International commercial flights into Vietnam remain suspended through February 16, the end of the Lunar New Year holiday. Repatriation flights for Vietnamese overseas will also be limited during this period. Only flights approved by the Vietnamese government are currently allowed entry.
Travelers in Hanoi should anticipate heightened security measures and travel disruption ahead of the National Party Congress, scheduled to take place from January 25 to February 2. Authorities have increased security controls in border areas and at airports and deployed more than 6,000 security force personnel. Events are expected to be held at My Dinh National Stadium, Vietnam National Convention Center, and other key government buildings. Shortnotice traffic disruption in the vicinity of event venues is likely closer to date.
EUROPE
BREXIT
Travelers in the UK and EU member states should continue to reconfirm itineraries and abide by all official directives. New regulations came into effect following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU (Brexit) on December 31. The European Commission (EC) has recommended member states treat the UK as a third country under its travel restriction regulations, only permitting travel for essential reasons. Those arriving in England and Scotland now need to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken up to 72 hours prior to departure.
BELGIUM
Travelers in Belgium in the coming weeks should abide by all official directives following the extension of restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal government has announced the extension of countrywide regulations such as entry restrictions until at least March 1. The regional curfews between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM local time in Brussels-Capital and Wallonia regions have also been extended until March 1 and February 15, respectively.
CYPRUS
Travelers in Cyprus, particularly in Limassol, in the coming days should anticipate disruption due to adverse weather conditions. Recent heavy rainfall has caused flash flooding in urban centers. In Limassol, several roads, including highways have been inundated. Power outages were also reported after a lightning strike damaged electricity networks. Forecast rainfall, strong winds, and low temperatures in the coming days may cause additional disruption. Travelers are advised to reconfirm that routes are passable prior to setting out and allow additional time to complete journeys.
FRANCE
Through January 31, travelers should abide by all official directives related to COVID-19. A nationwide night-time curfew will be in effect from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time from January 16-31. A nationwide curfew is already in place from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time with some departments exempted, where the curfew is effective from 6:00 PM local time. Travelers should also reconfirm journeys as France has introduced a requirement for a negative COVID-19 test for all inbound travelers from outside the EU.
Travelers in France in the coming weeks should anticipate and avoid further protests over a controversial national security law, due to the risk of local unrest. The largest demonstrations are usually held on Saturdays, although sporadic gatherings can take place on other days. Nationwide protests are planned for January 30, with the main rally to take place in Paris. Some 75 people were arrested during the most recent related and well-attended protests on January 16. While further such events are likely to pass off peacefully, clashes between security forces and protesters, including far-left activists, are possible.
NETHERLANDS
Travelers in the Netherlands in the coming weeks should continue to abide by all official directives after the government extended COVID-19-related measures until at least February 9. Authorities recommend people stay at home, minimize contact with others, and defer non-essential travel abroad.
PORTUGAL
Travelers in Portugal should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown, with exceptions for authorized movement, began on January 15. Prime Minister Antonio Costa has said the lockdown has “a horizon of one month;” however, measures are set to be relaxed for 24 hours on January 24 to facilitate voting in the Presidential Election. Travelers should reconfirm region- and city-specific measures.
ROMANIA
Throughout January, travelers in urban centers should plan journeys bypassing nationwide protests. Trade unions are calling for an improvement in working conditions for healthcare workers. They are also protesting against the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its decision to freeze public sector wages. Police personnel will carry out a set of industrial actions on January 11, 18 and 25. Most planned actions are unlikely to directly impact business operations. Nationwide demonstrations will be held outside local government offices between January 12 and 14, and a protest will take place on January 14 at Victory Square in Bucharest. While these gatherings are likely to pass off peacefully, they should be avoided as a precaution and to minimize disruption.
RUSSIA
In the coming weeks, travelers in Khabarovsk should continue to avoid unauthorized protests over the arrest of former Regional Governor Sergey Furgal, in connection with business-related murders in the early 2000s. Weekly protests have been taking place on Saturdays at 12:00 PM local time since July. Although protests have been largely peaceful, police have detained protesters on several occasions, most recently on December 26, when local reports indicate several activists were detained. Police have also used batons to disperse previous gatherings. A heightened police presence should be anticipated around further protests due to the potential for local unrest.
Travelers are advised to monitor developments and anticipate demonstrations in the coming weeks following the arrest of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Police detained Navalny on January 17 at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) upon his return from Germany. Some of his supporters were also detained at Moscow’s Vnukovo International Airport (VKO) where he was originally due to land. A court hearing is scheduled for January 29 in relation to fraud charges. Protesters demanding Navalny’s release are expected to gather ahead of the trial. Travelers should avoid all gatherings due to the risk of forcible dispersal measures and arbitrary detention by security forces.
SWITZERLAND
The Federal Office of Meteorology (MeteoSwiss) has issued an orange alert (third-highest level on a four-tier scale) through January 18 for several areas in central and western regions due to adverse weather conditions. Heavy snowfall has disrupted national train and public transport services in affected areas, including the St Margrethen– Munich rail network on January 17. Travelers should plan journeys accounting for further disruption, allow additional time, and exercise caution during travel.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Ukraine should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of internal COVID-19- related restrictions. Authorities have announced a nationwide lockdown from January 8 until at least January 25, during which non-essential businesses will remain closed. All public gatherings and mass events have been banned. The restrictions come amid high levels of anger over the economic effects of business closures. Since March, regular protests against the restrictions have occurred, with occasional related unrest.
UNITED KINGDOM
ENGLAND
Travelers in England in the coming weeks should abide by all official directives amid the implementation of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A new national lockdown will take effect from 12:01 AM local time on January 5 until at least February 15. Only essential movements will be authorized and must be strictly limited.
Adverse weather is expected to affect parts of England, particularly eastern and southwestern areas, until at least January 20.The Met Office has issued an amber rain warning (second level on a three-tier scale) for 24 areas between York and Dartford. A yellow rain warning (lowest level) is also in place for various other parts of England. Associated floods are likely to cause transport and power disruption.
On January 16-24 and 30-31, travelers should plan rail journeys to or from London accounting for disruption due to scheduled engineering works. Train services will be limited on the East Coast Main Line, between Grantham and Peterborough on January 16-24 while work is being completed on a new section of railway in Peterborough’s Werrington area. On January 30-31, all tracks will be closed at London’s King’s Cross station to accommodate upgrade work at the facility. Passengers on affected routes may need to make multiple transfers or use rail replacement services to reach their destinations. Alternative modes of transportation, including busses, may experience significant delays due to increased demand.
BREXIT
Travelers in the UK should monitor developments and abide by all government guidelines related to the country’s withdrawal from the EU. Following the end of the transition period on December 31, new entry and exit restrictions came into effect from January 1, 2021. These changes are expected to increase border-crossing delays due to stricter document-checking procedures and will impact the requirements of EU citizens relocating in the UK. Travelers in the EU should remain apprised of wider policy adjustments, including changes to mobile phone services and travel insurance policies, as well as access to the National Health Service (NHS).
NEW COVID-19 TESTING REQUIREMENTS
The UK Government has confirmed that beginning at 4:00 AM GMT on January 15, 2021, all inbound passengers traveling to England will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test, taken up to 72 hours prior to departure. Passengers will be subject to an immediate fine of £500 if they fail to comply with the new regulations on predeparture testing. This includes UK citizens and those transiting a UK airport. A limited number of exceptions, including children under the age of 11 and haulers, are set out on the gov.uk website. Travelers arriving in England from the Common Travel Area (the United Kingdom, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey) will also be exempt.
All passengers arriving from countries not on the government’s travel corridor list will still be required to self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of test result. Passengers will still be required to fill out a passenger locator form and be subject to national lockdown restrictions.
NEW COVID-19 ENTRY RESTRICTIONS
Travelers should reconfirm itineraries following the announcement of new COVID-19-related entry restrictions, effective at 4:00 AM local time on January 15. Inbound travelers who have visited or transited through the following countries in the past ten days will be barred entry to the UK: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Cape Verde, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Paraguay, Panama, Portugal, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. This does not apply to British and Irish Nationals or UK residents, who will be permitted entry but must self-isolate for ten days upon arrival. A flight ban will also be in place for Argentina, Brazil, Cape Verde, and Portugal.
