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
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.
FLORIDA
A shooting occurred at the intersection of 105th Street Northwest and 24th Avenue, near Little River Park, in Miami, Florida on the night of January 3. According to police, eight people were injured.
MINNESOTA
Travelers in Minneapolis, Minnesota in the coming days should continue to anticipate demonstrations related to a recent fatal police shooting. Police in Minneapolis on December 30, 2020 shot and killed an African American man during a traffic stop. The incident has prompted daily demonstrations in the city since. Although no associated violence has been reported following the release of the incident’s body cam footage, the possibility remains a concern. Further demonstrations related to the incident and associated issues are highly likely in the coming days.
WASHINGTON DC
Travelers in Washington DC on January 6 should anticipate disruption during planned protests and counter-rallies over the 2020 Presidential Election and plan journeys accordingly. Authorities will restrict vehicular traffic movement on January 5 and 6 throughout downtown in anticipation of the demonstrations. Due to controversy over the election, political tensions in the US are high, and demonstrations have the potential to become unruly. Previous rallies have resulted in local unrest after dark and isolated clashes between rival activists. The upcoming gatherings coincide with a scheduled session of Congress to count the Electoral College’s votes.
NATIONWIDE PROTESTS
Travelers in the US should exercise caution and anticipate potential unrest linked to demonstrations over police brutality and reform, as well as the November elections and other political issues. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators and extremist individuals. Travelers attending related gatherings should be aware of their surroundings, maintain access to reliable means of communication, and leave at the first sign of unrest.
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.
CHILE
Travelers in Santiago should avoid an ongoing unruly protest outside the Ministry of Education. Demonstrators earlier set fire to tires on Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins near Plaza Los Heroes which briefly caused traffic disruption. The demonstration has been organized by students who are protesting against the country’s national university entrance test which is planned to take place today. Historically, similar protests have taken place throughout the city near universities, testing centers and major public squares, such as Plaza Los Heroes. These areas should be considered likely flashpoints throughout the day.
COLOMBIA
Travelers in Cauca department should plan journeys today accounting for road disruption following landslides along the Pan-American Highway near the municipality of Rosas. Emergency services personnel are addressing the situation, but authorities have thus far not provided a timeframe on when the route will be cleared. Travelers should exercise caution and ensure routes are clear prior to setting out.
GUADELOUPE
Dengue cases continue to be reported in Guadeloupe; however, case activity remains above seasonal thresholds. The disease is spread mainly by mosquito bites. It can cause a range of symptoms including fever, headache, and a rash. Some people, especially infants, pregnant women and those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Prevention is mainly by avoiding mosquito bites. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or traveling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission.
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 northern areas in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for possible disruption caused by winter weather conditions. Heavy snowfall on January 2-3 led to significant traffic delays and temporarily obstructed several roadways in Bouira and Medea provinces. The National Bureau of Meteorology (NMB) has issued an orange warning (second highest on a four-tier scale) for “extreme cold” in multiple areas, including Ain Defla, Batna, BordjBou-Arreridj, Bouira, Khenchela, Medea, Setif and Tizi-Ouzou provinces. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes and transport before setting out and allow additional time for journeys.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
Travelers should continue to monitor developments linked to the December 27 General Election. Voting passed off peacefully in Bangui but was disrupted by armed groups in most other prefectures. Militia violence attributed to the newly formed Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) group spiked ahead of the election, and the UN peacekeeping mission (MINUSCA) has deployed additional personnel. Travelers should continue to exercise heightened caution prior to the expected release of provisional results on January 4. The COD-2020 opposition coalition called for an annulment of the polls, citing insecurity and voting irregularities, on December 30.
CHAD
Travelers are reminded of the need to adopt stringent precautions when traveling in rural areas of Chad following recent fatal communal violence in Salamat region. At least 16 people were killed on January 1-2 during a dispute over land between herdsmen and farmers in the villages of Djokhana and Abourakha in the Mourayesub prefecture. Additional security forces have been deployed to the affected areas to disarm the belligerents. Further clashes or reprisal attacks are possible in the coming weeks, and authorities may impose an overnight curfew.
EGYPT
Travelers in Egypt in the coming days should expect an increased security force presence around Christian places of worship ahead of and during Coptic Christmas celebrations on January 6-7. Similar measures have been taken in recent years mainly due the Coptic churches being potential targets for militant attacks, especially during the holiday period; however, the elevated security this year is also part of the stricter COVID-19 measures in country. Travelers should minimize time spent around such sites during this period as a precaution.
GHANA
Travelers in Accra and other main cities should monitor developments around a legal challenge to the December 7 election results brought by the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party. Incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) has been declared the winner of the polls, which the NDC denounces. Opposition protests have been banned in Greater Accra region through January 10 but may still occur. All related gatherings should be avoided due to the risk of local unrest.
GUINEA
Yellow fever is a potentially severe viral illness spread via mosquito bites. It can be prevented through vaccination and by avoiding mosquito bites. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry for anyone 9 months of age or older arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers 9 months of age or older going to Guinea.
Cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) have been detected in Kankan, N’zerekore, Faranah, Kindia and Boke regions. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
IRAQ
Travelers to or from Iraq in the coming weeks should reconfirm their itineraries and monitor developments after authorities banned all flights to and from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Iran, Japan, South Africa, the Netherlands, and the UK. All non-Iraqi citizens traveling from these countries will be barred entry to Iraq, while any Iraqi citizens returning from them will be required to quarantine upon arrival for a period of 14 days. All land borders will additionally be closed from December 24 until at least January 7, 2021.
ISRAEL
In the coming weeks, travelers should anticipate and avoid further protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the government’s COVID-19 response. Well-attended gatherings are occurring primarily on Saturdays along major roads, squares and bridges, as well as around Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem’s Rehavia neighborhood. Recent gatherings attracted additional participants after the Knesset was dissolved on December 23, when the deadline for a new budget law passed without an agreement. Scuffles between rival protesters and police have been reported. Further such episodes could pose incidental risks to bystanders.
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.
KUWAIT
Beginning January 2, essential travel to Kuwait can resume after undertaking an assessment of the current COVID19 situation and potential for sudden changes. Air, land, and sea border crossings will reopen to international traffic on January 2 following closure on December 21 due to recent developments involving COVID-19. Inbound travelers should follow all official directives.
MALI
Two French soldiers were killed, and one injured, when their vehicle was hit by a bomb outside Menaka on January 2. This follows an earlier attack in which three French soldiers were killed by a roadside bomb in Hombori on December 28, 2020. This attack was claimed by al-Qaida-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), while no group has claimed responsibility yet for the former. Militant activity contributes to Mopti’s and Gao’s extreme travel risks and underlines the need for travelers to adopt stringent security precautions in those regions.
MAURITANIA
Increased cases of Rift Valley fever (RVF) have been reported across several regions. The disease can be transmitted to humans via contact with the blood, organs, or bodily fluids of infected animals. Infection can also occur through the bite of an infected mosquito or other insects. Symptoms of RVF may include a mild flu-like illness; however, in some cases the illness can be deadly. Prevention is through avoiding contact with potentially infected animals and their fluids/organs, preventing mosquito and other insect bites, and avoiding unpasteurized dairy products.
MAURITIUS
Travelers should reconfirm their itineraries after authorities suspended all flights from the UK and South Africa until at least January 10. This restriction is applicable to all passengers who are coming from or have transited these countries in the past 14 days. Requirements for inbound travel from other countries remain unaffected and continue to include a mandatory 14-day quarantine for all arriving passengers. All incoming travelers should also carry a negative PCR test result conducted within five to seven days of departure.
MOZAMBIQUE
Multiple attacks by the Islamist extremist al-Sunnah group in Cabo Delgado province, including near a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility, have been reported in recent days. This includes the latest clash between security forces and insurgents on January 1 in Quitupo village and an exchange of gunfire in Quitunda village on the same day. A counter-insurgency operation targeting Monjane village was conducted on December 30-31, 2020. The incident in Quitunda is the closest reported attack to the LNG sites. Travelers are reminded to defer all journeys to high risk districts in Cabo Delgado, where there is a persistent risk of militancy.
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 19 people were killed on January 1-2 by gunmen on motorcycles in the Giwa local government area (LGA). The attack follows several similar incidents on December 17, 2020 when 14 people were killed in Kauru, Lere and Zango-Kataf LGAs. A number of local villages and highways have been targeted in the past few months. Travelers should only undertake road travel during daytime hours and with careful journey management.
An additional case of polio has been reported in Sokoto. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccinederived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
SAMOA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Samoa due to stringent entry restrictions related to COVID-19. All travelers who have recovered from COVID-19 and seeking entry will be required to wait six months from their first positive test. Authorities have also barred entry to travelers originating or transiting from 13 countries where the new variant of COVID-19 has been reported. Travelers should refer to the Ministry of Health website for further details.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers should continue to reconfirm essential itineraries following authorities’ extension of a ban on international commercial flights through January 4. Suspension of entry through land and sea borders has also been extended for another week. All these measures may be further extended. On December 27, authorities confirmed that in-country foreign nationals are permitted to depart via special commercial and charter flights.
SIERRA LEONE
Three cases of polio were reported in mid-December 2020. In early January 2021, the polio strain was confirmed as circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2). Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. The circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV) strains can emerge in under-vaccinated populations. Travelers are advised to prevent infection by ensuring polio vaccination is up to date, including a booster, and selecting safe food and water.
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. Incountry travelers should exercise caution amid the possibility of an uptick in attacks by the Islamist extremist movement al-Shabab, particularly around election-related events.
At least four people were killed, and several others injured, in a car explosion on January 2 in the Lafoole area, 11 miles from Mogadishu. Reports suggest that at least one of those killed and at least four that were injured were Turkish nationals. This is the latest in a number of attacks claimed by the extremist al-Shabab group in recent weeks. The incident highlights the country’s extreme travel risks and a heightened threat in the lead-up to the elections in February. Travelers should avoid all non-essential travel to the country.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
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.
Travelers in northern areas of Queensland state over the coming days should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by the passage of Tropical Cyclone Imogen. The weather system made landfall near Karumba on the evening of January 3 and is expected to continue moving east-southeast before weakening into a tropical low. The storm is likely to bring heavy rain and strong winds to southeastern coastal areas along the Gulf of Carpentaria, as well as inland areas in southern Cape York Peninsula, until at least January 5. Road closures due to flooding, as well as disruption to flights, are possible in affected locations.
BANGLADESH
Travelers in urban centers, including Dhaka, on January 7 and 10 should anticipate disruption and avoid nationwide demonstrations by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The party is protesting against the increasing food prices and alleged electoral malpractices. Participants plan to form human chains and hold demonstrations across all sub-districts and urban centers on January 7 and 10 respectively.
CHINA
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 should prevent infection by paying attention to hygiene and avoiding contact with birds and their environment.
Non-essential travel to areas that have been officially designated as “medium” risk (second highest on a three-tier scale) owing to COVID-19-related restrictions should be deferred. These areas include certain locations in Beijing, as well in as Dalian, Shenyang, Chengdu, and Mudanjiang cities. Travelers should confirm any remaining requirements at original locations and destinations when planning travel to and from other areas of aforementioned places.
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 Sichuan province should anticipate residual travel disruption in the coming hours following an earlier magnitude 5.0 earthquake near Leshan. While no casualties or major infrastructural damage have been reported so far, travel disruption remains possible. Some train services between Leshan and Nixizhen were suspended along the Chengdu-Guiyang High-Speed Railway Line following the earthquake. Travelers are advised to reconfirm itineraries in the coming hours.
FIJI
All travel to Fiji should be deferred despite the resumption of inbound passenger flights beginning December 29. Only Fijian citizens and residents in Australia and New Zealand may enter the country. Non-citizens must seek approval from the Office of the Prime Minister to do so. Border quarantine protocols have also been tightened.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should continue to monitor developments amid rigorous police enforcement of the National Security Law (NSL) and against illegal assembly. Underlying tensions may drive small-scale gatherings organized by activist groups, which should be avoided as a precaution. There is also potential for hardline protesters to employ violent tactics. While protests have decreased in both frequency and attendance over the past few months, shortnotice gatherings remain likely, especially on key dates and public holidays.
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 in urban centers in the coming days should continue to expect significant disruption amid ongoing farmers’ protests over new agriculture laws. Farmers’ groups will hold talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government on January 4 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. If the talks result in an impasse, farmers’ organizations will hold a tractor rally on Western Peripheral Highway (Kundli Manesar Palwal Expressway) in Haryana state on January 6. GT-Karnal Road in New Delhi will likely remain affected during the demonstrations. The farmers will also march to New Delhi from Shahjanpur border and announce shutdown of malls and petrol pumps across Haryana. Additionally, gatherings are planned until January 18 in Telangana state. Traffic diversions can be expected in the vicinity of demonstrations.
INDONESIA
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.
All travel to Indonesia should be deferred and travelers in country should abide by official directives following the imposition of further COVID-19-related restrictions through January 14. All foreign nationals are barred from entering Indonesia; however, foreigners holding valid stay permits (KITAS/KITAP), or official and diplomatic permits, are exempt. Indonesian citizens and foreigners permitted to enter must present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result issued no more than 48 hours before their departure. The results should also be attached to the International eHAC app.
Travelers in Jakarta on January 4 should expect heightened security and associated travel disruption during the pretrial hearing of Muhammad Rizieq Shihab (also known as Habib Rizieq), leader of the outlawed hardline Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) organization. The hearing will be held from 9:30 AM local time at the South Jakarta District Court. Authorities are reportedly deploying 1,610 additional security personnel in the vicinity of the venue and may divert traffic from nearby roads, including Jl Ampera Raya. Travelers should also avoid any related gatherings by FPI supporters due to the risk of local unrest.
Travelers in Jakarta should continue to abide by all official directives following the extension of transitional LargeScale Social Restrictions (PSBB) until January 17. Various associated measures remain in force throughout the capital, including limitations on operating hours for most establishments, a ban on public gatherings of more than five people, and restrictions on travel to and from areas not under the PSBB.
KAZAKHSTAN
Essential travel to Kazakhstan may be possible with stringent precautions and flexible itineraries. Limited international commercial flights have gradually resumed, and most domestic restrictions have been lifted. Inbound travel is permitted for Kazakh Nationals and citizens of countries which have resumed direct flights with Kazakhstan. It is also permitted for those travelers who have obtained permission from authorities. Incoming travelers should present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours prior to their departure. Kazakh citizens, if they choose, may instead take a PCR test upon arrival and then quarantine for three days. Outbound travel restrictions are in place for foreign residents, where re-entry within 90 days is prohibited unless from an exempt country.
KYRGYZSTAN
Local media on January 3 reported that authorities recently arrested a suspected terrorist in northern Osh region. The suspect, a Kyrgyz national, is accused of maintaining links to an international terrorist organization and plotting to bomb a military unit in the region. During a search of his residence, security forces reportedly uncovered various propaganda materials, weapons, and military gear. While this rare arrest does not reflect a rise in the overall risk of terrorism in Kyrgyzstan, it serves to highlight the latent militancy threat in the country. Travelers should exercise heightened vigilance in the vicinity of potential targets, such as military interests.
Travelers in Kyrgyzstan in the coming week should avoid all political gatherings related to the Presidential Election and the Constitutional Referendum, both of which will be held on January 10. Associated protests in Bishkek have thus far remained relatively small and peaceful; however, the risk of local clashes between rival political party supporters or with security forces remains credible in the lead-up to and in the aftermath of the upcoming events. Travelers should closely monitor developments to remain apprised of any further planned gatherings and minimize non-essential movement on January 10 as a precaution.
MALAYSIA
Travelers in Malaysia should continue to anticipate intermittent travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the monsoon season, which usually lasts until March. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and related landslides are expected nationwide during this period. Most-affected areas include Johor, Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu states on Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak state on Borneo Island. While flooding and associated disruption can be more protracted in rural areas, urban centers such as Kuala Lumpur are not immune. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Travelers in or traveling to Johor in the coming days should reconfirm itineraries and anticipate travel disruption amid widespread flooding throughout the state. The flooding, caused by heavy rainfall during the ongoing monsoon season, has resulted in significant disruption, with more than 6,500 people evacuated from their homes. Flooding has also been reported in urban centers, including Johor Bahru, as well as on major roads such as the East Coast Expressway. Authorities have issued a “Danger” warning (highest on a three-tier scale) for Mersing district until January 4, as well as a “Bad” warning (second-highest) for Kluang and Segamat districts until January 5.
MONGOLIA
All travel to Mongolia should be deferred due to COVID-19-related restrictions. Border closures and the suspension of international commercial flights have been further extended through March 31. Special chartered repatriation flights are exempt. Authorities have extended the period of heightened State of Readiness in all provinces except for Ulaanbaatar through March 31. Lockdown measures are in place through January 6.
MYANMAR
Travel to Myanmar should be deferred amid COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended all existing preventive measures for COVID-19 through January 31. This includes a ban on international commercial flights, entry restrictions and visa suspension for foreign nationals, as well as quarantine requirements for repatriated citizens.
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.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in Pakistan in the coming weeks should continue to monitor developments and avoid demonstrations organized by the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) due to the risk of unrest. The PDM have announced 11 rallies across smaller cities in their second campaign to demand the ouster of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf government by January 31, 2021. The protests are scheduled to run until January 27, 2021 and are likely to be well attended as well as monitored by additional security force personnel. Traffic disruption and local scuffles between protesters and security forces may occur during the demonstrations.
A fatal attack, in which 11 coal workers were killed, took place on January 3 in the Mach area of Kachhi district. The incident underscores the threat of militancy and the need to defer non-essential travel to Balochistan. The extremist Islamic State (IS) group has claimed responsibility for the attack. The victims belonged to the minority Shia Hazara community, indicating there were sectarian motives behind the killings. Following the incident, members of the Hazara community blocked the Western Bypass Road in Quetta in protest against the killings.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Travelers in West New Britain province should continue to abide by official directives following changes to local restrictions. The province is on a 14-day lockdown until 12:01 AM local time on January 15. Authorities have allowed domestic repatriation flights for stranded passengers in and out of the province to operate until January 6; however, all passengers are required to take antigen rapid tests before their flights. Furthermore, a daily curfew from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time remains in place.
PHILIPPINES
All travel to the Philippines should be deferred amid COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) measure through January 31 in the National Capital Region, the provinces of Batangas, Davao del Norte, Isabela and Lanao del Sur, and the cities of Davao, Iloilo, Tacloban, Iligan and Santiago. A modified GCQ will remain in effect for the rest of the country, also through January 31.
SOUTH KOREA
Travelers in South Korea should anticipate intermittent travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season, which will last until February. Heavy snow can cause short-notice disruption to air and overland travel. Adverse weather can also cause damage to buildings or disrupt the supply of essential services such as electricity. Northern and mountainous regions, such as Gangwon province, as well as smaller cities and rural locations are the most vulnerable.
TAIWAN
Beginning January 1, travelers should monitor developments and reconfirm their itineraries following the imposition of further stringent entry restrictions related to COVID-19. All non-resident foreign nationals will be barred from entering Taiwan and all transit flights will be suspended until further notice. In addition, effective January 15, before departure, all passengers allowed entry will be required to present proof of the place where they will undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine.
THAILAND
COVID-19 has now been detected in over 50 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.
Travelers in Thailand should abide by official directives amid renewed measures related to COVID-19 pandemic. Effective January 4, entertainment venues, educational institutions, and other business establishments will be closed across 28 provinces classified as “maximum control zones” until further notice. The zones also include Bangkok. While interprovincial travel is permitted, authorities have advised against non-essential travel and introduced health screening measures, especially for visitors from these provinces (also called as “red zones”). Travelers are furthermore required to show evidence of their need to travel. Travelers should liaise with local contacts to remain apprised of latest guidelines before undertaking interprovincial travel; authorities are liable to impose further short-notice restrictions.
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.
Travelers should reconfirm their itineraries after authorities banned flights to/from Austria, Australia, Denmark, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, South Africa and the UK until at least January 10, 2021. Nationals of the aforementioned countries and those who have been to these countries in the last 14 days are also barred from entering or transiting through Uzbekistan. Uzbek citizens arriving from these countries will have to undergo 14 days of quarantine.
VANUATU
All travel to Vanuatu should be deferred following an extension of COVID-19-related measures under a nationwide state of emergency through July 31. Flight availability is limited and entry is allowed only to citizens, permanent residents and diplomats. Foreign nationals allowed entry must complete 28 days of quarantine, of which the first 14 days are institutional quarantine. Additionally, travelers must have valid COVID-19 test results issued within 72 hours of their departure and will be tested again upon arrival.
EUROPE
Travelers in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region and Georgia should anticipate disruption to travel and business activities ahead of and during Eastern Orthodox Christmas holiday period on January 6-7. Many businesses, banks, and offices are closed or operate at reduced hours during this period, even as the exact holiday dates vary across the region. Additionally, a heightened security presence can be expected in the vicinity of celebrative venues and gatherings as well as Eastern Orthodox churches across urban centers.
FRANCE
Travelers should 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, though sporadic gatherings will also take place on other days. While the events are likely to pass off peacefully, clashes between security forces and protesters, including far-left elements, are possible outside major urban centers.
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 should plan journeys accounting for travel disruption caused by severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds until January 5. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) has issued an orange warning (second-highest on a four-tier scale, denoting dangerous weather and a need for vigilance) for January 4 for the entire country, except for Crete and Cyclades Islands. An orange warning is in place for Dodekanisa and North East Aegean Islands for January 5.
NETHERLANDS
Beginning December 29, travelers should abide by all official directives following the imposition of new COVID-19 testing rules for inbound travelers. Those arriving from a high-risk area by plane (including transiting passengers), ferry, train or coach must present a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours. For travel within the Schengen Area, this only applies to journeys further than 18 miles into Dutch territory.
PORTUGAL
Until at least January 4, travelers in the Azores and Madeira autonomous regions should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by adverse weather. Heavy rainfall and strong winds in recent days have reportedly led to significant flooding and fallen trees on several islands in the Azores. The Portuguese Institute of Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) has issued a yellow warning (second highest on a four-tier scale) for continued rainfall throughout most of the Azores until January 4. A red warning (highest) has also been issued for forecast heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in parts of Madeira on January 4.
RUSSIA
Through January 4, travelers should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption due to adverse weather conditions, including heavy snowfall and strong winds. The Hydrometeorological Center of Russia has issued storm alerts for Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, where heavy snowfall is forecast through December 30, as well as Primorsky Krai, where abnormally cold weather is expected to last through January 2. The agency has also warned of severe weather in Perm Krai and Tyumen and Sverdlovsk oblasts through January 4. Adverse weather may prompt short-notice road closures, cause infrastructure, transportation and business disruption, and delay emergency response services.
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.
SPAIN
Travelers in Spain should abide by official directives and monitor developments following the announcement of new restrictions from December 23 until January 6, 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spanish government has advised all autonomous communities, except the Canary and Balearic islands, to implement stringent entry and exit restrictions during the holiday period. Exemptions will only apply to Spanish citizens visiting family members and close friends, or those traveling for essential reasons.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Ukraine ahead of and during the holiday period between December 25 and January 8 should anticipate disruption to travel and business activity. Authorities have declared December 25 and January 1, 7 and 8 as public holidays. Many businesses, banks, and governmental offices will be closed or operate with reduced hours. In Kyiv, a festive pedestrian route will start at Sofiyivska Square and pass Friendship of Nations Arch and Andriivs’kyi descent before ending at Kontraktova Square. Travelers should anticipate heightened security around celebration venues, as well as Eastern Catholic and Orthodox churches in major urban centers and abide by COVID-19-related restrictions.
UNITED KINGDOM
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 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.
Transmission of COVID-19 continues to surge in some regions. There is limited acute care bed availability and hospitals are either near or at capacity. Different levels of local restrictions on movement and gatherings are in place across the country. Health authorities have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people who have COVID-19 and their contacts. Travelers should follow all directives. To prevent infection, travelers should limit face-to-face interactions with other people as much as possible, pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face, wear a mask whenever required to and consider wearing a mask whenever in public.
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: Only Belgium residents arriving from the UK by train or flight will be allowed entry until December 31. on-residents can enter from January 1, provided they supply evidence of a negative Covid-19 test taken no more than 48 hours prior to their arrival.
- Bulgaria: Flights to and from the UK are suspended through January 31, 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Morocco: Flights to and from the UK suspended.
- Netherlands: All flights from the UK are banned.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
