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
Throughout December, travelers should continue to anticipate notable disruption to movement and business operations and abide by restrictions related to an ongoing spike in COVID-19 cases in much of the country. Authorities in many states have issued or strengthened existing mandates restricting public gatherings, interstate travel, and mobility. This tightening of restrictions is likely to continue throughout the country. Restrictions in some areas may last through the holiday season into 2021. Travelers should monitor announcements from local authorities.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in Orange county, California over the coming days should anticipate disruption and reconfirm the status of routes due to the ongoing Bond Fire. The wildfire has spread to an area of nearly 11 square miles and is currently around 90% contained. All evacuation orders and warnings have been lifted.
HAWAII
Travelers should anticipate disruption and monitor developments in the coming hours following an eruption at the Kilauea volcano in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The eruption occurred at around 9:30 local time on December 20, prompting the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO) to raise the alert level to ‘Warning’ and the aviation code to ‘Red’ (the highest levels on a four-tier scale). Residents have also been encouraged to stay indoors and exercise caution due to volcanic ash in the southern part of the island. Travelers should monitor developments and follow all official directives.
US & CANADA
Authorities have extended the closure of the US-Canada border to non-essential travel (i.e., for recreation and tourism purposes) until January 21, 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border freight movement is still permitted. Travelers should defer all travel to Canada, unless coming directly from the US for essential purposes or otherwise exempted from COVID-19-related restrictions. Travelers should defer non-essential travel to the US, where COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect.
ARGENTINA
Travelers in Argentina on December 22 should expect significant travel disruption during a planned 24-hour strike by train workers. The action has been called by the Union for Train Drivers’ Brotherhood to demand government reimbursement for employee healthcare. Union leaders have threatened to stage an additional 48-hour strike on December 31- January 1 if no agreement is reached. While no related protests have been announced, such events are liable to occur and should be avoided as a precaution. Commuter rail services will likely be non-operational on the day, which may result in increased demand and consequent delays affecting alternative modes of transport. Travelers should reconfirm the status of transport services and maintain flexible itineraries.
BRAZIL
Travelers in Vila Velha in the coming hours should avoid the vicinity of the 38th Infantry Battalion’s headquarters in the Prainha neighborhood following a reported fire and explosion earlier on December 21. According to local media sources, the fire took place in a warehouse next to the main ammunition storage facility, setting off a cache of smallcaliber ammunition seized from criminal organizations. Emergency officials are currently responding to the incident; no casualties have so far been reported.
Four people were reportedly killed, and one injured, on December 21 in an attack on a bar in the upscale Potengi neighborhood of Natal. According to the Military Police, four individuals arrived in a vehicle at around 1:00 AM local time and indiscriminately opened fire inside the bar. The victims included the establishment’s owner and several youths. The attackers’ identity and motives are yet to be determined. The incident highlights the significant risks posed by violent crime in Brazil. Travelers should exercise heightened vigilance and avoid venturing out after dark.
ECUADOR
Throughout December, travelers in Guayaquil should anticipate heightened security amid an ongoing police operation to combat a recent increase in violent crime. 500 police officers have been deployed to the city to focus on crimes associated with drug trafficking and territory control. Authorities are also considering deploying the National Guard. Travelers should monitor developments and abide by all official directives. Police operations can develop into confrontations with criminal groups, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
HAITI
Throughout December, travelers in Haiti, particularly Port-au-Prince, should anticipate disruption and avoid demonstrations associated with upcoming Presidential, Legislative, and Local Elections to be held in January. While President Jovenel Moise confirmed that elections will take place in January, a specific date has not been announced. Opposition elements in the country have denounced the notion of holding elections while Moise remains in power. The protracted political crisis has caused many unruly demonstrations, which are likely to continue in the lead-up to and in the aftermath of the elections.
Throughout December, travelers in Port-au-Prince and nearby areas should exercise caution and minimize nonessential movement amid heightened police operations targeting criminal gangs in the city’s south. Several police operations have recently occurred in the Bicentennaire neighborhood, near the southern entrance to the city. On December 16, a police raid reportedly involved members of the armed forces. Previous such operations have resulted in prolonged shootouts, posing significant incidental risk to bystanders. Authorities have indicated the operations will persist in the short-term.
HONDURAS
Travelers due to travel via Ramon Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP), which serves San Pedro Sula, should reconfirm flights and make alternative transport arrangements. Flooding and damage linked to the recent passage of weather systems, including tropical storms Eta and Iota, has prompted the closure of the airport until at least December 31. Local reports suggest the closure may persist into January-February 2021. All scheduled flights are being rerouted to other Honduran airports.
VENEZUELA
Travelers in Venezuela over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid demonstrations linked to the recent National Assembly (Parliament) elections, due to the risk of unrest. President Nicolas Maduro’s United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) won a large majority in the December 6 polls, which were boycotted by the main opposition parties. Opposition activists have called for a national day of protest on December 12. Demonstrations carry a significant risk of unrest, including potential clashes between participants and security forces and/or progovernment paramilitaries. In-country travelers should exercise caution and minimize movement during such events.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
ALGERIA
Travelers in Jijel in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. Heavy rain on December 20-21 resulted in extensive flooding and infrastructure damage, including to homes, electrical poles and roadways, in several parts of the city. Multiple vehicles were reportedly washed away by floodwaters, and residents in certain neighborhoods required evacuation, though no one was injured. Severe flooding and associated traffic disruption have also been reported on the N43 Motorway, along which a bridge in the western area of the city has partially collapsed. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes and transport before setting out.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
Travelers should monitor developments and prepare to minimize movement from December 26-29 around General Election polling day on December 27. Tensions have spiked during the official campaign period, which will continue until December 25, over fresh militia violence attributed to the newly formed Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) group. Travelers should continue to exercise heightened caution during this period. A heightened deployment forces of the UN’s stabilization mission (MINUSCA) has been reported. All related political gatherings should be avoided, and travelers should monitor the security situation in their location on a daily basis.
A new militia alliance dubbed the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC), made up of three main armed groups in the country, has been blamed for several fatal attacks in the south in the last week. Since December 16, the group has staged attacks in a number of localities, including Mbaiki, Bossembele and Yolake. The developments have triggered the deployment of additional UN peacekeeping (MINUSCA) troops at entry and exit points of Bangui ahead of the December 27 Presidential Election. Travelers are reminded of the need to defer all travel outside of Bangui, particularly due to heightened militia violence.
CHAD
Throughout December, travelers in Kabbia Department should abide by a local curfew following recent communal violence. Dozens were killed on November 23-25 in fighting between farmers and semi-nomadic cattle herders. Although a reconciliation ceremony took place on December 1, local authorities have extended the 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time curfew through December 15.
DJIBOUTI
Essential travel to Djibouti can resume with stringent precautions and flexible itineraries. International commercial flights have gradually resumed, and most domestic restrictions have been lifted. Incoming travelers should present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result issued within 120 hours of their arrival. While there is no mandatory quarantine for visitors, those aged over 11 years must undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival. They must then remain in the airport until the results become available. Travelers should also be aware of potential entry restrictions in other countries when departing Djibouti. Additionally, restrictions may be reimposed in Djibouti at short notice.
GHANA
Travelers in Accra on December 22 should plan journeys bypassing an opposition demonstration. Parliamentarians belonging to the National Democratic Congress will march towards the headquarters of the Electoral Commission from Parliament House at 10:00 AM local time. They intend to contest the results of the December 7 General Elections. Related demonstrations have led to minor incidents of unrest, underlining the need to avoid all such gatherings as a precaution.
Travelers in major urban centers, particularly Accra, should exercise caution in the coming days due to the potential for further protests and associated unrest over the December 7 General Election results. Incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has won a second term, but the result is being disputed by the leader of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama. The NDC has staged unruly protests in recent weeks, and any further gatherings by the political party are likely to be accompanied by local disturbances amid heightened political tensions. In Accra, flashpoints include Kwame Nkrumah Circle, the main political party offices, and the Electoral Commission headquarters.
ISRAEL
Throughout December, travelers in urban centers anticipate further protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu amid an ongoing political impasse. The ruling coalition has until December 23 to reach a budget deal to avoid triggering fresh General Elections in 2021. Netanyahu’s opponents have accused him of attempting to delay an agreement as a means to extend his time in power. At least 2000 people participated in a protest in Jerusalem calling for his resignation on December 12. Further gatherings are likely around Netanyahu’s residence and other main squares. Travelers should expect related disruption on Route 1 between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Travelers due to travel to Israel in the coming weeks should reconfirm their itineraries following the announcement of new restrictions in response to recent developments involving COVID-19. Effective from 2:00 PM local time on December 23, all foreign nationals will be barred from entering the country, except under special circumstances. This measure will remain in effect until at least January 6, 2021. In addition, all Israeli nationals returning from abroad will be required to quarantine at a government-designated hotel for 14 days; however, this period can be shortened to ten days with the presentation of two negative COVID-19 test results obtained during isolation.
KENYA
Suspected members of the Somalia-based Islamist extremist al-Shabab group ambushed a police vehicle in Nyongoro’s Lango La Simba area on the morning of December 20. The vehicle was escorting passenger buses between Lamu and Garsen. Heavy exchange of gunfire was reported, though police said there were no casualties. The attack came a few hours after clashes between suspected militants and security forces overnight on December 19-20 in Wajir county. These incidents reflect the need to avoid non-essential journeys to the high travel risk counties bordering Somalia, including Garissa, Lamu, Mandera and Wajir. Travelers undertaking essential travel there should avoid road journeys wherever possible.
KUWAIT
Travelers should monitor development and reconfirm their itineraries in light of the announcement on December 21 of new entry restrictions by authorities. All entry through air, land and sea borders will be suspended from 11:00 PM local time December 21 until January 1, 2021 due to recent development involving COVID-19. Passengers arriving before the suspension should follow all official directives.
LEBANON
Travelers in Lebanon should continue to abide by official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic amid temporary ease of movement restrictions. Authorities announced on December 21 a reduction in nighttime curfew to between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM local time from December 23 to January 1, 2021. Bars and restaurants will be allowed to stay open until 3:00 AM local time during this period; however, a State of Health Emergency remains in place until at least March 31, 2021.
MOROCCO
Travelers in Morocco should continue to abide by official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic after internal restrictions are tightened in the coming days. Authorities announced that a nationwide curfew from 9:00 PM until 6:00 AM local time will be in place from December 23 for a period of three weeks. Additionally, restaurants in Agadir, Casablanca, Marrakech and Tangier will have to close. Restaurants in the rest of Morocco will be allowed to operate until 8:00 PM local time.
Travelers in Rabat on December 22 should avoid a union-led sit-in demonstration scheduled to start from 11:00 AM local time at the Ministry of Education. The event is being organized over employment conditions and the government’s policies towards the education sector. Related protests were staged in several cities across the country on November 22, including in Rabat, Fez and Casablanca, where demonstrators were reportedly arrested following scuffles with police. Associated gatherings can be forcibly dispersed by police, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
MOZAMBIQUE
Reports on December 17 indicated that at least 12 civilians were killed in an attack by suspected members of the Islamist extremist al-Sunnah group in Chai village in Macomia district. The assailants ransacked homes and food reserves before fleeing to the nearby Meangaleua Forest. Similar attacks reportedly occurred in the village of Nangade. Earlier on December 15-16, the military launched an offensive against al-Sunnah in Macomia and Mueda districts; at least six troops were killed. Travelers are reminded to defer all journeys to high travel risk districts in Cabo Delgado, where there is a persistent risk of militancy.
NAMIBIA
Essential travel to Namibia can resume with stringent precautions and flexible itineraries. International commercial flights have gradually resumed and most domestic restrictions have been lifted. Arriving foreign nationals must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours of their departure. No quarantine measures are in place upon arrival, except for arriving travelers not carrying a negative PCR. Travelers should also be aware of potential entry restrictions in other countries when departing Namibia. Restrictions may be reimposed at short notice.
NIGER
Through December 27, travelers in Niger are reminded of the persistent risks posed by militancy and the need to adopt stringent precautions. At least 27 people were killed on December 13 during an incursion by suspected members of the Nigerian Islamist extremist group Boko Haram against Toumour. On December 3-4, armed militants attacked a military outpost near La Tapoa. An increase in attacks is likely ahead of the December 27 Presidential and Legislative Elections, particularly in rural and border areas. Heightened vigilance should be exercised in Niamey and Diffa.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos should expect significant travel disruption during repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge that began on November 21, and plan journeys accordingly. Until February 22, the Adekunle to Adeniji Adele end section of the island inbound lane of the bridge will be partially closed, during which traffic will be diverted.
Travelers are reminded of the need for stringent security precautions during essential travel to Kaduna and Zamfara states following a reported increase in bandit attacks. In Kaduna, at least 14 people were killed on December 17-19 in Zango-Kataf, Kauru and Lere local government areas. In Zamfara, eight people were killed on December 17 during an ambush on a convoy traveling on the Zaria-Funtua Highway
Fresh militant attacks in Borno state on December 18 and 19 underscore the extreme risks associated with journeys to the region, and the need to avoid all travel there. Five soldiers were killed on December 19 when Islamist militants ambushed a military convoy near Mafa, approximately 27 miles from Maiduguri. Earlier on December 18, militants killed at least one person and abducted 35 others at a fake checkpoint in Garin Kuturu, around 16 miles from Maiduguri.
SAMOA
Travelers in Samoa should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by severe weather. Heavy rain and significant flooding was reported on December 19, including in Apia. Landslides have also affected various areas. More than 50 people remain in evacuation centers. Heavy rain, flood, and marine advisories remain in effect; however, the Samoa Meteorology Division (SMD) has forecast that the weather conditions will improve on December 22.
Travelers should continue to defer travel to Samoa due to COVID-19-related restrictions. While several measures have been relaxed, an ongoing State of Emergency has been further extended until at least January 4, 2021. International flights remain suspended until further notice. Repatriation flights and flights approved by the Cabinet for exceptional circumstances are exempt.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers should reconfirm essential itineraries following the announcement on December 20 of new entry restrictions and requirements by the Saudi authorities. Entry through air, land, and sea borders will be suspended for one week beginning December 21. The suspension is subject to extension for another week. Foreign flights already in the country are allowed to depart. Travelers who have returned since December 8 from Europe and other countries affected by the latest COVID-19-related development are required to undergo home isolation for two weeks from the date of arrival. They also need to take COVID-19 tests every five days during the isolation period.
Travelers on essential travel in Saudi Arabia on December 22-24 should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to adverse weather conditions. The Saudi General Authority of Meteorology and Environmental Protection (GAMEP) has warned of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flash floods in Riyadh and several provinces. Some of the affected areas include Mecca, Medina, Al-Bahah, Aseer, Jazan, Hail, Al Qassim, Eastern and the Northern Borders provinces.
SOMALIA
Travelers in Somalia should monitor developments following an announcement on December 3 by President Donald Trump that US troops would withdraw from Somalia by January 15, 2021. The 700 US military personnel stationed in Somalia will be redeployed to neighboring countries. The announcement comes ahead of Somalia’s upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections tentatively set for December 2020 and February 2021 respectively. In-country travelers should exercise caution amid the possibility of an uptick in attacks by the Islamist extremist movement al-Shabab, particularly around election-related events.
SUDAN
Travelers on essential travel to Sudan should continue to monitor developments after authorities suspended all flights from the Netherlands, South Africa, and the UK from December 23 until at least January 5, 2021. The new restrictions are applicable to passengers traveling from these countries, regardless of their nationalities. Inbound travelers should reconfirm their itineraries and follow all official directives.
TONGA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Tonga amid COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended a State of Emergency until at least 10:00 PM local time on January 18, 2021. A nationwide nightly curfew remains in place from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM, except on December 25 and January 1. Gatherings remain limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors. Social distancing measures also remain in place.
TUNISIA
Throughout December, travelers in Douz and Beni Khedache should expect heightened security and observe an ongoing curfew. On December 14, authorities imposed a night curfew from 4:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time until further notice. The decision followed clashes on December 12-13 in the town of Ain Skhouna over a land dispute. One person was killed, and several were injured in the violence.
UGANDA
Throughout December, travelers across Uganda, particularly Central and Western regions, should continue to avoid all electoral campaign rallies due to the risk of unrest. President Yoweri Museveni began his Presidential campaign in the Western region on December 7, starting from the city of Mbarara. The rallies were well attended and a heightened security forces presence was reported in surrounding areas. Travelers should continue to monitor developments and avoid related gatherings due to the credible risk of unrest.
ZAMBIA
Essential travel to Zambia can resume with stringent precautions and flexible itineraries. International commercial flights have gradually resumed, and most domestic restrictions have been lifted. Incoming travelers should present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result issued no more than 14 days before their departure. While visitors do not need to quarantine or self-isolate upon arrival, returning residents are required to self-isolate at home for 14 days. Travelers should also be aware of potential entry restrictions in other countries when departing Zambia. Additionally, domestic restrictions may be reimposed in Zambia at short notice.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
AFGHANISTAN
At least five people were killed, and two others injured, on December 22 in an explosion in Kabul’s Doghabad district area. The explosion was caused by a magnetic improvised explosive device attached to a vehicle. No group has yet claimed responsibility. The incident highlights the persistent risk of militancy, Afghanistan’s associated extreme travel risks, and the need for dedicated security support when undertaking any movement.
An explosion has been reported in Doghabad in Police District 7 of Kabul. The blast targeted a vehicle in the area, killing at least one person.
AUSTRALIA
Through February, travelers should account for Fire Danger Warnings related to ongoing bushfires and follow all official directives. A Complete Fire Ban has been lifted from the affected areas in Queensland. Nonetheless, travelers should continue to maintain flexible itineraries and be prepared to defer or change travel plans, due to Fire Bans that may be imposed at short notice.
BANGLADESH
Travelers on December 30 should avoid planned protests by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party as a precaution and to minimize delays. Demonstrations to demand the cancellation of the 2018 General Elections will be held at 11:00 AM local time at district and metropolitan levels across the country. In Dhaka, a rally is scheduled at National Press Club. Scuffles between demonstrators and police can occur if the former attempt to break the security cordons. There is also a likelihood of counter-rallies by supporters of the ruling Awami League, which could result in clashes. Such unrest poses incidental risk to bystanders. Other flashpoints include Chittagong Press Club and Alangkar Circle in Chittagong, as well as Aswini Kumar Hall in Barisal City.
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 in China should defer non-essential travel to areas which have been officially designated as ‘medium’ risk (second highest on a three-tier scale) owing to COVID-19-related restrictions. These are Beijing, Dalian City, Chengdu City, Hulunbuir region, Mudanjiang City, and Turpan City. Travelers should confirm any remaining requirements at original locations and destinations when planning travel to and from other areas of aforementioned places.
Human cases of H5N6 bird flu have been reported in multiple provinces. Bird flu can cause a mild to severe respiratory illness which may be fatal. Most people who have been infected have had direct exposure to birds. There is no suggestion of an outbreak of human to human spread. The risk of infection in the general population appears to be low. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by paying attention to hygiene and avoiding contact with birds and their environment.
FIJI
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Fiji following the suspension of inbound passenger flights from December 24-28. The move follows recent developments involving COVID-19 in the UK. Multiple repatriation flights to Fiji are allowed to proceed up to December 24; however, any traveler aboard flights from the UK, as well as those deemed to be contacts of UK-based travelers, will be quarantined separately upon arrival.
HONG KONG
All travel to Hong Kong should be deferred amid further COVID-19-related quarantine measures. Beginning December 22, all travelers arriving from other countries outside China, including residents, are required to undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine at government-designated hotels. Hong Kong authorities will also arrange transportation to transfer the travelers to selected properties.
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.
INDONESIA
Throughout December, travelers in Indonesia should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rains and flooding. Heavy rains are forecast to affect various parts of the country throughout December, including Jakarta. Adverse weather conditions may cause flooding and landslides. More recently, flooding and landslides have occurred in several areas, including North Sumatra and Central Java provinces. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Travelers in Indonesia, including Jakarta, should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption during the ongoing monsoon season. The rainy season is expected to last until April 2021 across much of Indonesia and is expected to peak in January-February. Flooding and landslides after prolonged heavy rain have affected parts of Aceh, Banten and North Sumatra provinces since mid-November. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out.
IRAQ
At least eight rockets were fired on December 20 at around 8:42 PM local time towards the International Zone (IZ) in Baghdad. The US Embassy confirmed that its compound sustained minor material damages, but that there had been no casualties. Iraqi media sources have reported that some buildings and vehicles in nearby residential areas were affected, and that an Iraqi soldier was injured. The attack followed a bombing earlier that day in Nasiriyah against a logistical convoy supporting the US-led coalition. Travelers should monitor developments and minimize time spent around US diplomatic and military interests.
KYRGYZSTAN
Throughout December, travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all gatherings related to planned Presidential and Parliamentary Elections, as well as the recent passing of a constitutional referendum bill. Presidential Elections are due to be held on January 10. The Parliamentary Elections rerun initially scheduled for December 20 has been postponed. The date will be set after the referendum on constitutional amendments, no later than June 1. On December 9, activists protested outside the Parliament building in Bishkek during the bill hearing. Travelers should closely monitor developments related to the elections.
NEW CALEDONIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to New Caledonia following the suspension of all international commercial flights to and from the country until further notice. Effective December 10, authorities have suspended all international commercial flights amid ongoing unrest in the country.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to anticipate further protests over the planned sale of a large nickel plant in Goro. A group of unidentified individuals reportedly attacked staff members and set several fires at the Goro mining site on December 21, causing damage to buildings and equipment. An investigation into the incident is under way, and no arrests have been made, but authorities stated that the situation remains stable. Associated short-notice gatherings can be expected in the coming days as tensions persist. Such gatherings should be avoided due to the risk of local unrest.
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 should monitor developments and continue to defer travel in light of the announcement on December 21 of new entry restrictions by the Oman authorities. All entry through air, land, and sea borders will be suspended for one week starting from 1:00 AM local time on December 22. Authorities are liable to extend the suspension period as the COVID-19 situation develops.
PAKISTAN
Throughout December, travelers in urban centers should continue to closely monitor developments and avoid demonstrations by the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition over risks of unrest. The PDM have announced a further 16 rallies, including a march to Islamabad in January or early February, although specific details have not been announced. A rally on December 13 at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore attracted thousands of peaceful participants despite COVID-19-related restrictions on gatherings. Such demonstrations are likely to be well attended, amid heightened security, which may lead to traffic disruption and local scuffles between police and protesters.
The Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) has threatened to block all major highways from December 22 in Balochistan province. The threat comes in response to the alleged abduction of a BNP-M member on December 17 from Khuzdar district. Major routes that could be affected by blockades include the N-25 and N-10 highways connecting Quetta and Gwadar, respectively, with Karachi. Related protests have been held in recent days in Quetta, Mastung, Kalat, and Khuzdar districts. Travelers on essential travel in Balochistan in the coming days should avoid all demonstrations and reconfirm the status of routes before setting out.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Throughout December, travelers should continue to monitor developments after Parliamentary developments on December 16. Earlier, 18 opposition ministers gave the incumbent government a majority in Parliament. The opposition has withdrawn its no-confidence motion against Prime Minister James Marape and the government passed its 2021 budget. Parliament has since been adjourned until April 2021. While demonstrations in support of either the government or the opposition have not yet been announced, short-notice gatherings remain possible. Flashpoints include the Morauta House, as well as Parliament House and Government House.
THAILAND
Over 1,000 people who have links to the Mahachai Seafood Market in Samut Sakhorn have tested positive for COVID-19. Cases associated with this cluster have been detected in at least 10 other provinces, including Bangkok. Travelers are advised to follow all official directives. To prevent infection, limit face-to-face interactions with other people as much as possible, pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, and 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.
TURKEY
Travelers on essential travel to Turkey should continue to monitor developments following the announcement on December 20 on inbound flights from certain countries. While inbound travel from most countries is unaffected, authorities have temporarily suspended all flights from Denmark, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the UK until further notice. Flights already en route are allowed to land, though arriving passengers will be subjected to COVID19 tests and an unspecified period of quarantine. Incoming travelers from these countries should reconfirm their itineraries, and those arriving in Turkey should follow all official directives.
UZBEKISTAN
Travelers in or traveling to Tashkent over the coming weeks should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to temporary road closures in the city’s central district during the holiday season. The measure is intended to facilitate a series of scheduled holiday events, including New Year’s Eve celebrations, and will remain in force until 12:00 AM local time on January 15, 2021. Significant traffic delays can be expected along alternative routes as motorists follow diversions. Some public transport services will also be affected within the central district. Travelers should anticipate heightened security, follow official directives, and allow additional time for travel.
VIETNAM
Throughout December, travelers in central and southern provinces should plan journeys accounting for disruption in areas affected by heavy rains and flooding. Persistent heavy rains since November 28 have flooded several areas in Khanh Hoa province. Authorities in Nha Trang evacuated around 2,400 people from residential zones due to flooding in low-lying areas. Disruption to road and rail services was also reported in Nha Trang and adjoining regions. The Khanh Le Pass and Nha Trang Railway Station remain blocked due to flooding. There have been four confirmed deaths in the province’s Van Ninh district.
Travelers in southern provinces should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of former tropical storm Krovanh until at least December 24. According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF), Krovanh, now a tropical depression, is moving in a westerly direction towards Ca Mau and will pass through the province overnight on December 23-24. The weather system is forecast to weaken further into a lowpressure area by December 24 but will nonetheless bring strong winds and heavy rain during its passage. Shortnotice transport disruption is possible, including at Ca Mau Airport (CAH). The Level 3 disaster risk warning (middle on a five-tier scale) issued by the NCHMF ahead of Krovanh’s passage remains in effect.
EUROPE
Throughout December, travelers in Armenia and Azerbaijan should continue to monitor developments following the signing of a peace agreement related to the conflict in the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. The agreement was signed overnight on November 9-10 by Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin; however, a ceasefire violation was reported in Nagorno-Karabakh on December 11. Both sides have traded accusations of violating the ceasefire. Additionally, protests calling for the resignation of Pashinyan have been ongoing in Yerevan following the announcement of the peace agreement. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid any related gatherings.
ARMENIA
Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has declared a three-day national mourning period beginning December 19 for the victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict. Commemorative processions will take place in urban centers, including a march from Republic Square to the Yerablur Military Cemetery in Yerevan. Travelers in Armenia should anticipate disruption.
Throughout December, travelers should continue to monitor developments and follow all official directives following an amendment of the current martial law. The government announced the easing of several restrictions beginning December 3 and until further notice, which includes lifting the ban on protests, removing a special regime around entering and exiting the country, and easing restrictions on local media publications. Martial law was imposed in the country on September 27 following an escalation in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and remains in effect despite the announcement.
Travelers in Armenia on December 22 should anticipate disruption during a nationwide general strike organized by opposition parties. Participants in Yerevan will gather outside the Government House in Republic Square at 12:00 PM local time to demand the resignation of Prime Minsiter Nikol Pashinyan over a November deal to end fighting with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Protesters have blocked both road and rail traffic at previous demonstrations. While most recent gatherings have passed off peacefully, security forces are liable to forcibly disperse crowds. Liaise with local contacts to confirm the status of roads and plan journeys bypassing affected areas.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming weeks should continue to avoid further anti-government gatherings due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations have been taking place to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, following a November deal to end fighting with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Pashinyan has refused to step down, triggering further protests and calls for a nationwide disobedience campaign by the opposition. While most such gatherings have passed off peacefully, dozens of protesters were detained on December 8 and 11. Security forces occasionally use heavy-handed tactics against demonstrators. Travelers should continue to abide by ongoing martial law provisions, despite the recent easing of related restrictions.
AUSTRIA
Travelers in Austria should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. The government has announced that a nationwide lockdown will be in place from December 26 until January 24, 2021. As part of the restrictions, nonessential shops will be closed until at least January 18, and people should only leave their homes for essential reasons. Additionally, mass antigen tests will be available on January 16-17. Lockdown restrictions will then no longer apply to those who receive a negative result.
BELARUS
Non-essential travel to Belarus should be deferred due to COVID-19-related restrictions. To control the spread of the disease, the government has ordered the temporary closure of land borders to outbound travel beginning at 12:01 AM local time on December 21 until further notice. The measure applies to Belarusian citizens and foreigners in possession of permanent and temporary residence permits, with certain exceptions allowed. Entry and exit to the country via airports will remain unrestricted, with foreign visitors permitted to enter subject to inbound travel restrictions.
BELGIUM
Travelers in Belgium should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. An ongoing curfew in Brussels and Wallonia region between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM local time has been extended until at least January 15. A curfew between 12:01 AM and 5:00 AM is currently in place for the rest of the country.
DENMARK
Travelers in Denmark should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities imposed new measures in Copenhagen and 37 other municipalities until at least January 3. Such measures will be extended to another 31 municipalities from 4:00 PM local time on December 11. These include the closure of schools, restaurants and entertainment venues. Travel between regions remains permitted.
FRANCE
Throughout December, travelers should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over controversial national security legislation due to the risk of local unrest. The largest demonstrations are likely to be held on Saturdays, but sporadic gatherings will also take place on other days. Most recently, 19 separate rallies occurred in urban centers across the country on December 11-12. Most such events cause limited disruption and pass off without major incident; however, precedents indicate that clashes between security forces and protesters, including far-left elements, are more likely to occur in major urban centers, particularly Paris.
GERMANY
Beginning December 16, Germany will go into a nationwide lockdown lasting through January 10. Non-essential shops and non-takeaway eating joints are required to close. Private meetings cannot exceed more than five people from two households. Rules will be slightly relaxed on December 24-26 for Christmas, allowing for up to four additional family members from other households to meet indoors.
Through December 28, travelers in Saxony should abide by official directives following the imposition of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten out of 13 counties in the state so far have recorded more than 200 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants per week. In these counties, residents are only allowed to leave their accommodation for essential purposes.
GREECE
Through January 7, travelers in Greece should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. The nationwide lockdown has been extended through January 7. Non-essential businesses, including restaurants, bars and sports venues, will remain closed during this period. Non-essential movement between regions is prohibited. A curfew remains in place from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Beginning December 18, international travelers arriving in the country will have to self-quarantine for ten days.
Travelers in Athens on December 22 should plan journeys accounting for disruption during a protest organized by the Workers Union of West Attica. Participants will gather at 4:30 PM local time at the Ministry of Labor to denounce working conditions amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
SPAIN
Throughout December, travelers in urban centers should continue to plan journeys bypassing further protests over a controversial education law to minimize delays. The “Mas Plurales” alliance of student associations, labor unions, and civil society groups have held a series of well-attended gatherings and protest convoys. These have passed off peacefully, but significant traffic disruption was reported, including in Madrid. The movement intends to stage a series of fresh nationwide demonstrations on December 20.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Kyiv on December 22 should avoid a protest by business owners from 1:00 PM local time at Independence Square. Clashes between demonstrators and security forces occurred at the same venue on December 19. The latter reportedly used batons to disperse participants, injuring at least 70 people.
UNITED KINGDOM
From December 24 through January 3, travelers planning rail travel to or from London should account for disruption at Kings Cross Station due to maintenance work. No trains will run via the station on December 25-30, though replacement bus services will be available. Services will also operate on reduced schedules on December 24, as well as December 31 through January 3.
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 will come 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 travel restrictions and lockdown measures have been put in place following the rapid spread and discovery of a new strain of the coronavirus, which is thought to be more than 70% more infectious. The new variant of COVID-19 originates in southeast England and has been identified in Denmark, the Netherlands and in Australia according to the World Health Organization.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson on December 19 announced new COVID-19-related restrictions. Tier 4 (‘Stay At Home’; highest level of a four-tier system), under which travel is only allowed for essential purposes such as work, now includes all of London and several parts of southeastern and eastern England. Meanwhile, local authorities have placed all of Wales under lockdown, while a similar measure will begin in Scotland on December 26. Travel between Scotland and the rest of the UK is currently prohibited. Restrictions are subject to frequent change. Travelers should abide by official directives.
Travelers due to travel to and from the UK in the coming days should reconfirm itineraries after multiple countries announced new travel restrictions in the wake of recent developments involving COVID-19. Countries throughout the EU, as well as additional countries around the world, have banned flights to and from the UK temporarily, with more countries considering implementing such measures. Eurostar has suspended all trains between London, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
- Argentina: Flights from the UK to Buenos Aires have been cancelled as of December 21.
- Austria: Air travel to and from the UK is prohibited.
- Belgium: Travelers arriving from the UK by train or flight will be blocked for 24 hours, effective 12:00 AM local time on December 21.
- Bulgaria: Flights to and from the UK are suspended through the end of January 2021. Travelers from the UK are required to partake in a 10-day quarantine upon arrival.
- Canada: Most air travel from the UK has been banned, effective 12:00 AM local time on December 21 until at least December 24.
- Chile: All flights to and from the UK will be suspended as of December 22. Travelers who have been in the UK in the last 14 days are required to self-quarantine.
- Colombia: All flights to and from the UK are suspended as of December 21. Upon entering Colombia, travelers who have been in the UK in the last 14 days will be required to self-quarantine.
- Czech Republic: All flights from the UK were halted as of 6 AM ET on December 21.
- Denmark: Flights from the UK are banned until at least December 23.
- Dominican Republic: All flights between the island the UK are cancelled through January 10. All other operations such as emergency flights, cargo and airmail will not be affected by the mandate.
- Ecuador: Travelers arriving from the UK, Australia, South Africa and the EU need to show negative PCR test results taken 10 days prior to arriving in the country. They must also take an antibody test that will be provided at international airports and isolate for five days on arrival. Non-residents must isolate in hotels chosen by the local authorities.
- El Salvador: All travelers entering the country from South Africa or the UK are banned.
- Estonia: Flights from the UK are banned until January 1, 2021.
- France: All travel to and from the UK is suspended through December 23 at 12:00 AM local time. The Port of Dover and Eurotunnel are closed.
- Germany: Flights to and from the UK and South Africa are suspended effective December 20.
- Greece: Travelers arriving from the UK must present a negative PRC test conducted within the last 72 hours, will be subject to a 7-day quarantine, and be tested upon arrival. If the result of the test upon arrival, travelers will still be required to quarantine for 7 days, if the result is positive, travelers will be quarantined for a period advised by authorities.
- Grenada: All flights to and from the UK are suspended until further notice. Anyone who has been in the UK within the past 14 days will not be allowed entry into the country.
- Guatemala: Travelers from the UK are prohibited from entering the country. Further restrictions will be announced December 23.
- Hong Kong: Flights cancelled as of 12:00 AM local time on December 21. Travelers who have been in the UK for more than 2 hours in the past 14 days will not be allowed entry.
- India: Flights to and from the UK are cancelled through December 31, 2020. Travelers arriving in India from the UK before December 22 are required to take a mandatory RT-PCR test.
- Iran: Flights to and from the UK are cancelled through January 3, 2021.
- Ireland: All flights from Britain have been banned through December 22. All travel to Ireland, including by land or sea, is discouraged; ferry services to the UK have been cancelled.
- Israel: Incoming flights from Britain, Denmark, and South Africa are currently banned, as are foreign nationals from the aforementioned countries
- Italy: Flights to and from the UK have been suspended. Travelers who have visited Britain in the last 14 days are also banned.
- Jamaica: All flights coming from the UK are banned until January 4 beginning December 23. Travelers arriving from the UK on December 22 will be PCR tested on arrival and quarantined for at least 48 hours in government accommodation. Those testing negative will receive armbands to complete a 14-day quarantine at home. Those testing positive will be quarantined by the state until their recovery.
- Japan: Entry from Britain is already banned in principle.
- Jordan: All direct and indirect flights from the UK are banned through January 3, 2021.
- Kuwait: All flights from the UK are suspended.
- Latvia: Flights from the UK are banned until January 1, 2021.
- Lithuania: Flights from the UK are suspended indefinitely.
- Luxembourg: Temporarily suspended flights from the UK.
- Mauritius: Travelers who have been in the UK in the past 14 days will be denied entry until at least December 31.
- Morocco: Flights to and from the UK suspended.
- Netherlands: All flights from the UK are banned.
- North Macedonia: Flight restrictions will be announced December 22.
- Oman: Air, sea and land borders are closed as of December 22 for one week.
- Pakistan: Direct and indirect flights from the UK are suspended through at least December 30. Repratriation flights are still available.
- Panama: Travelers who have stayed in or transited the UK or South Africa in the past 20 days will be prohibited from entering the country.
- Paraguay: Travelers who have been in the UK since December 7 will not be allowed entry. Residents will need to seek approval to enter the country and present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival; they must then quarantine for 10 days in government-provided accommodation or a health hotel. People already in Paraguay, who came from the UK between December 14-21, must isolate at home for seven days from their arrival date.
- Peru: Flights from Europe are banned until at least January 3. Travelers who have been in the UK in the last two weeks will also be denied entry.
- Poland: Flights to and from the UK have been suspended until at least January 6, 2021.
- Portugal: Only Portuguese nationals will be allowed entry to the country on flights from the UK. Travelers will need present a negative COVID-19 test result.
- Russia: Flights to and from the UK are suspended through December 29.
- Saudi Arabia: All international flights, as well as entry through land and sea ports, is suspended until December 28.
- South Korea: Effective immediately, travelers arriving from Britain will be required to present two negative COVID-19 test results before being released from the mandatory 14-day quarantine.
- Spain: Travelers from the UK will be refused entry, unless a Spanish citizen or resident. Border controls at Gibraltar will also be enforced.
- Sweden: Flights from the UK are banned until at least December 23. Travelers from the UK will be denied entry through January 22, 2021.
- Switzerland: Travelers from Great Britain or South Africa will be denied entry.
- Taiwan: No plans to cancel flights from the UK currently. Mandatory 14-day quarantine in effect for all travelers.
- Trinidad and Tobago: Travelers arriving from the UK will be subject to an extended mandatory quarantine of 14 days.
- Tunisia: Flights to and from the UK, Australia & South Africa are suspended until further notice. Travelers who have recently resided or transited the aforementioned countries will also be denied entry.
- Turkey: Flights from the UK, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Denmark are currently banned.
- United States: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Delta Airlines have agreed to test all passengers before they enter New York State, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Monday. Additionally, Virgin Atlantic will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test for all passengers traveling from London to anywhere in the United States starting December 24.
