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
TROPICAL STORM ETA
Until at least November 13, travelers in Florida and southern Georgia states should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm will continue to weaken as it tracks along the west-central coast of Florida, before moving inland and across northern parts of the state on November 12. It is forecast to dissipate in the western Atlantic Ocean later in the day or early on November 13. Eta made landfall in the Florida Keys overnight on November 8-9.
UNITED STATES
Travelers should monitor developments and follow all official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most states have begun to lift restrictions on mobility and non-essential businesses, though some have halted reopening plans due to a significant increase in COVID-19 cases within at least 40 of the 50 states. The varied impact of the outbreak and local pressure by constituents has led state governors to reopen businesses and lift stay-at-home orders; however, some have issued mandates on wearing masks in public places and quarantining when returning from certain states with high case numbers. More than 3.8 million cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in the United States, with increased activity in the South and West.
NATIONWIDE DEMONSTRATIONS
Travelers in the US in the coming hours should exercise caution and anticipate demonstrations with regards to the November 3 General Election and police reform. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events. This is due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators, and extremist individuals. Travelers near protest venues should anticipate disruption and possible clashes between protesters, counter-demonstrators, and police. 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.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in California continue to reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted a State of Emergency and the closure of several major routes. Mandatory Evacuation Orders have also been issued for multiple counties. At least 32 people have so far been killed, and more than 300,000 others evacuated. While some of the fires have been largely contained, residual disruption remains possible in affected areas.
COLORADO
Travelers in Colorado should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to ongoing wildfires. The two remaining fires, the Cameron Peak and East Troublesome fires, have become the first and second largest in the state’s history. They have also prompted the closure of several major roadways in Larimer and Grand counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
FLORIDA
Travelers in Florida state in the coming days should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. The storm made landfall in the Florida Keys overnight on November 8-9, causing flooding in several cities. The storm has downgraded to a tropical storm just hours after it had gained hurricane strength on November 11. Eta is forecast to move through the southwest coast of Florida to the west-central coast on the evening of November 11 and weaken after it moves inland over the northern areas of the peninsula on November 12. By late November 12 or early November 13, Eta is forecast to move northeastward through the western Atlantic.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Operations have resumed at Charleston International Airport (CHS). A suspicious package, which prompted the evacuation of the facility earlier on November 11, has now been given the all-clear. Road traffic leading to the airport has also resumed.
WYOMING
Travelers in Wyoming should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption due to multiple ongoing wildfires which have prompted the closure of several major roads, as well as mandatory Evacuation Orders and PreEvacuation Notices for multiple counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
BOLIVIA
Travelers in Bolivia over the coming days should continue to anticipate and avoid further gatherings linked to the results of the October 18 General Election. Opponents of the victorious Movement for Socialism (MAS) party have staged protests against the results. Meanwhile, ousted former president Evo Morales (in office 2006-19) returned to the country from exile in neighboring Argentina on November 9. Pro-and anti-MAS gatherings are likely to continue in the coming days. Such events are liable to disrupt travel and may result in confrontations between rival groups, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
BRAZIL
According to a recent study, armed militia groups in Rio de Janeiro control more than half of city’s territory. Five institutions partook in the research, including local universities and digital crime watch platforms, utilizing data from a government anti-crime hotline. The study shows that 57.5% of territory is under militia control, with 11.4% under the Red Command criminal group, the most prominent criminal organization in the city. Over 25% of city’s territory is disputed. Travelers are reminded to exercise caution, as violence from territorial conflicts can pose incidental risk to anyone in the vicinity.
CUBA
Travelers in Cuba in the coming days should continue to anticipate disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta. The weather system made landfall in the Florida Keys (overnight on November 8-9. It is forecast to move north through the south-eastern Gulf of Mexico through the evening of November 11. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) has issued tropical storm watches for Cuba, where heavy rain and associated flooding is expected until November 12.
MEXICO
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers, particularly Mexico City, should plan journeys accounting for disruption during anti-government demonstrations. The National Anti-AMLO Front group, which is calling for President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s resignation, plan to stage a major rally in Mexico City on November 21. Related gatherings may also take place in the interim and may disrupt travel. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes prior to departure.
Travelers in south-eastern Mexico in the coming days should anticipate flood-related disruption after heavy rainfall caused by a confluence of several weather systems, including recent Tropical Storm Eta. Flooding and landslides have blocked roads in in Chiapas, Tabasco, and Veracruz states. More than 100,000 people have been affected, and at least 21 fatalities have been reported. Travelers should ensure routes are passable before undertaking road travel in affected areas.
Travelers in Cancun and in Mexico City should closely monitor developments linked to protests against alleged police brutality. A protest calling for justice in a local femicide case in Cancun on November 9 ended in a clash between protesters and police. Police reportedly used tear gas and possibly live ammunition to disperse the protesters. On November 11, protesters gathered in Mexico City to denounce police response. Additional protests in Cancun are planned for November 15 in front of the Municipal Government Palace at 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM local time. Further associated demonstrations are likely in the coming days.
PERU
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests over the recent impeachment of former president Martin Vizcarra (in office 2018-20). On November 9, the Peruvian Congress voted to remove Vizcarra from office, citing his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and corruption allegations as the primary reasons. Demonstrations both for and against the move were subsequently held on November 9-10 in multiple cities. Security forces notably deployed tear gas to disperse a related gathering in Lima. Any further related protests will carry the potential for local unrest, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
Travelers over the coming days should avoid further demonstrations in response to controversial comments made on October 21 by French President Emmanuel Macron over caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Related protests have taken place in several countries over the issue. Further gatherings are likely, particularly coinciding with the anniversary of Prophet Muhammad’s birth on October 29. While the threat of terrorism varies by country, travelers should minimize time around potential militant targets as a precaution and monitor local sentiments, particularly in regard to their nationality.
ANGOLA
Travelers in urban centers, including Luanda, in the coming weeks should anticipate and avoid anti-government demonstrations due to the risk of unrest. These demonstrations are prompted by persistent political and socioeconomic grievances. On November 11, a number of related protests were either deterred with the pre-emptive deploying of police or dispersed forcibly. Such forcible dispersion of gatherings poses incidental risks to bystanders.
BAHRAIN
Travelers in Bahrain should anticipate disruption to government services until November 15 during the mourning period for Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman al-Khalifa, who died on November 11. Authorities have declared a oneweek mourning period, during which government offices will be closed for three days from November 12. Travelers should plan for associated disruption and reconfirm appointments during this period.
BURKINA FASO
Travelers in Burkina Faso should monitor developments and avoid all gatherings related to the November 22 Presidential and Legislative Elections. Thirteen candidates will be competing in the first round of the Presidential Election. Should no candidate obtain an absolute majority of the vote, a run-off election will take place within a maximum of 15 days after the final results of the first round have been announced. The threat of militant attacks ahead of and during the vote is elevated, and while significant social unrest around the vote is not expected, travelers should avoid all political gatherings as a precaution.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Travelers in Cote d’Ivoire should continue to exercise caution and avoid protests linked to the October 31 Presidential Election following fatal unrest on November 9-10. On November 9, the Constitutional Council confirmed the victory of incumbent Alassane Ouattara after the opposition on the same day called for nationwide protests, reigniting unrest in several locations and opposition strongholds, including Daoukro and Sikensi. On November 11, Ouattara met opposition leader Henri Konan Bedie to restore dialogue. Although negotiations appear to have successfully started, further protests are likely and should be avoided due to the risk of unrest.
Travelers should minimize movement and abide by curfews imposed in several opposition strongholds. A nightly curfew is in place from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time in Bongouanou, Daoukro, Mbatto, Toumodi, Bonoua, Dabou, Ndouci, Sikensi and Divo. Since August, at least 85 people have been killed in communal clashes and unrest related to the presidential elections. Further such incidents may prompt additional curfews or changes in timings. Travelers should keep abreast of developments.
ETHIOPIA
Throughout November, travelers in Oromia should exercise caution after gunmen killed at least 54 people, reportedly ethnic-Amharas, on November 1 in the West Wollega zone. Several houses were also burned. The attack follows the withdrawal of federal security forces from the area. Authorities have blamed the attack on the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), an armed splinter group of the Oromo Liberation Front political party, but these claims cannot be substantiated. Further attacks are likely, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
Amhara state’s government announced that protests against Tigray state’s ruling party, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), are planned for November 12. The Ethiopian federal government is currently engaged in a military conflict with the TPLF. The protests will take the form of processions. They will begin at 2:30 PM local time in Bahir Dar, Debre Birhan, Debre Markos, Debre Tabor, Dessie, Finote Selam, Injibara and Kombolcha. Similar gatherings are planned in Oromia state, though no venue or time has been provided. Rallies in Ethiopia carry a credible risk of unrest and should be avoided as a precaution.
Travelers in Ethiopia in the coming days should continue to defer travel to Tigray state amid reports of ongoing military clashes. Those within the state should continue to stand fast until the situation has stabilized and communications are restored. Federal forces have reportedly carried out airstrikes targeting a Tigrayan armed group’s positions and assets across the state, including in Mekelle. Fighting continues to be reported in areas of Tigray bordering Amhara state. Statewide telecommunications services remain blocked, and airspace over Tigray remains closed. Continued clashes are likely between local military groups and federal security forces in all aforementioned areas of Tigray.
ISRAEL
Travelers in Israel in the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further weekly protests in urban centers. Demonstrations are expected to continue due to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s corruption trial and the government’s COVID-19 response. Protests demanding Netanyahu’s resignation have occurred on a weekly basis since July. Well-attended protests took place on November 7 at the Prime Minister’s residence in Jerusalem, as well as Habima Square and Rabin Square in Tel Aviv. While these protests passed off peacefully, previous gatherings have been forcibly dispersed by police, with several arrests made. Further demonstrations should be avoided to minimize inconvenience.
KENYA
Travelers in or traveling through Mai Mahiu town should anticipate a heightened security force presence and associated disruption following demonstrations and unrest on November 10. Sand harvesters blocked the NairobiNaivasha and Nairobi-Narok highways in protest of higher fees imposed by quarry owners. Two protesters were reportedly killed following clashes with police. While further unrest is unlikely due to additional officers deployed to the town, delays may occur on routes in the area due to police spot-checks.
LEBANON
Travelers in Beirut on November 12 should plan routes avoiding a protest planned for 12:00 PM local time outside the Palace of Justice. Protesters will demand the prosecution of those responsible for the August 4 Port of Beirut explosion. While the protest is intended to remain peaceful, travelers should avoid the protest venue to minimize travel disruption and exposure to possible unrest.
LIBERIA
Travelers in Monrovia and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid anti-government demonstrations from November 16, due to the risk of unrest. The rallies, called by the Council of Patriots activist movement, are linked to persistent political and socio-economic grievances. Scuffles between participants and government supporters are possible, while gatherings may be forcibly dispersed by police. Potential flashpoints in Monrovia include government buildings in the Capitol Hill area, as well as Tubman Boulevard and the University of Liberia campus.
MALI
Travelers in urban centers should expect disruption and avoid all gatherings related to a trade union strike from November 18-20. Labor unions have called for a nationwide strike against a perceived lack of employment rights. While most events are likely to pass off peacefully, local unrest during demonstrations cannot be ruled out.
NIGERIA
Travelers in Lagos beginning July 24 should expect significant travel disruption during planned repair work on the Third Mainland Bridge and plan journeys using alternative routes. The Lagos State Government announced the partial closure of the bridge until January 2021 for maintenance works. Travelers should anticipate increased traffic congestion and a potential surge in crime on congested routes during the closure of the bridge.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers are reminded of the need to exercise vigilance and minimize time spent around potential targets for attacks following an explosion on November 11 in Jeddah. International media reports indicate that at least two people were injured after an explosive device detonated during an Armistice Day commemorative event, which was held at the Non-Muslim Cemetery in the al-Balad area and attended by several foreign diplomats. The Saudi Interior Ministry has not yet commented on the incident. While the threat of militancy in Saudi Arabia is latent, the incident highlights the risk of low-level and opportunistic attacks.
Authorities on November 12 announced the interception of an armed drone launched by the Yemen-based Houthi group. The drone was reportedly targeting civilians and civilian facilities in southern Saudi Arabia. No casualties or damages were announced. Similar interceptions were also reported on November 5 and 9. The Saudi Air Defense System remains capable of intercepting most projectiles launched by the Houthis. Travelers should nevertheless exercise caution around potential targets, including government and military interests, energy infrastructure, and airports.
SUDAN
Throughout November, travelers in Khartoum and other urban centers should anticipate and avoid further antigovernment protests over socio-economic issues. Protesters gathered over the weekend of October 31-November 1 in Atbara, and previously on October 26 and 29 in Khartoum and other cities, in protest of the latest hike in fuel prices. The protesters are denouncing worsening socio-economic conditions, including bread and fuel shortages and inflation. Police may forcibly disperse demonstrations, which poses incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid areas experiencing unrest.
UGANDA
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further rallies in support of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party. NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (popularly known as Bobi Wine) was recently certified as a presidential candidate in the 2021 elections. Election campaigns by Kyagulanyi are under way despite they are commonly denied authorization from officials. These campaign events are well attended and often forcefully dispersed by police due to gatherings being unauthorized. On November 11, police deployed tear gas, among other measures, in Gulu and Kitgum districts during unauthorized rallies held in support of Kyagulanyi.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
Travelers in Muslim-majority areas of the region should continue to anticipate demonstrations prompted by comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron. Large-scale rallies have taken place in Bangladesh and Pakistan, with some forcibly dispersed by police. Despite recent clarification by Macron, the emotive nature of the issue will continue to trigger protests, especially after Friday afternoon prayers. Travelers should monitor developments closely and avoid all related gatherings due to the risk of unrest.
CAMBODIA
Travelers should plan journeys in the coming days accounting for possible disruption due to adverse weather conditions. The Ministry of Water Resources and Meteorology has warned of the impact of two weather systems approaching the country. Former tropical storm Etau, now a low-pressure area, will bring heavy rainfall on November 11-12. Severe Tropical Storm Vamco is forecast to pass over Cambodia as a Tropical Depression on November 15. Flooding due to heavy rainfall is possible in low-lying or coastal areas.
CHINA
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to areas in Shanghai and Tianjin where restrictions have been tightened following an increase in COVID-19 cases. The government raised its risk rating to ‘medium’ (middle on a three-tier scale) for Yingqiancun in Shanghai and Hangu Street and Tianjin fishing port in Tianjin. In several cities, travelers who departed from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure and undergo a 14- day quarantine upon arrival. This does not apply to travelers who only transited the airport.
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to Kashgar following an increase in COVID-19 cases and tightened restrictions on outbound travel. Outbound travelers are required to present a certificate proving they have tested negative for COVID-19 no more than seven days before their departure. They may be subject to additional measures upon entering other provinces, including quarantine requirements. Local authorities elsewhere, including in Beijing and Shanghai, have advised their residents to defer non-essential travel to Kashgar. Authorities are liable to announce measures at short notice in the coming weeks.
INDIA
Travelers in urban centers should expect increased security and associated disruption ahead of and during the Hindu festival of Diwali on November 14. Large crowds can be expected at transport hubs and markets, which also increase the risk of petty crime. Militancy and communal unrest also pose risks during the festival period. Authorities may impose short-notice COVID-19-related measures on gatherings and movement.
Travelers in Bihar state over the coming days should avoid potential protests linked to the State Assembly Election results, which were announced early on November 11. The incumbent National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which includes the federal ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal (United) (JD-U) party, won the closelycontested polls, taking 125 seats in the 243-member Legislative Assembly. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD)-led opposition alliance, which secured 110 seats, has alleged irregularities in vote-counting.
Travelers should avoid further protests over new farm laws in the coming weeks. The All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) farmers’ organization plans to hold related demonstrations in Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on November 26-27; however, police have banned all such gatherings. While the AIKSCC has petitioned authorities to permit the demonstrations, the group has also stated that it will proceed with the protests even if the ban remains in place. These are expected to be well-attended amid heightened security presence. Farmers’ groups and opposition parties claim the new laws weaken government support for the agricultural sector.
Travelers in Rajasthan state should avoid ongoing protests by the ethnic-Gujjar community to demand reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The protests, led by prominent Gujjar leader Col Kirori Singh Bainsla, is centred at Pilupura, where participants continue to block railway tracks. This has affected rail services on the route linking New Delhi and Mumbai. Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders (Section 144), banning the assembly of more than four people, in Bharatpur, Karauli and Tonk districts. In addition, mobile internet services are suspended in parts of Alwar, Karauli, Bharatpur, Sawai Madhopur and Jaipur.
INDONESIA
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further protests related to remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron. Large demonstrations were held on November 2-4 in several cities, including Jakarta. While rallies in recent days have passed off peacefully, there remains a risk of local unrest during further gatherings. Authorities are likely to implement pre-emptive road closures and traffic diversions near protests.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rain and flooding. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecast that intense rain will affect most parts of the country during November. Such conditions have previously resulted in flooding and landslides. These have affected thousands of people and damaged infrastructure in several areas, including Jakarta. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out.
Travelers in Jakarta and other urban centers should continue to avoid all demonstrations over the controversial ‘Omnibus Law’ due to the risk of unrest. Labor and student groups claim the legislation degrades labor rights and environmental protection. While most associated demonstrations are likely to remain small, labor groups-led rallies are likely to be well-attended. Police are liable to forcibly disperse demonstrations and implement traffic diversions near protest venues.
Travelers in Indonesia over the coming weeks should avoid gatherings linked to the December 9 local elections, as a precaution. Despite COVID-19-related government directives to minimize in-person campaigns, gatherings continue to take place in cities and towns where polling will take place. Such events can be expected to increase in frequency as the elections approach, especially until the end of the campaign period on December 5.
Recent arrests of suspected militants underline the persistent risks posed by terrorism in Indonesia. Counter-terror operations in various provinces in November led to the arrest of at least seven suspected terrorists. They were reportedly linked to the Mujahidin Indonesia Timur (MIT), Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), and Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) groups. The developments also highlight the need for travelers to maintain vigilance and minimize time spent around potential targets of militant attacks.
KAZAKHSTAN
Travelers in Almaty on November 14 should anticipate disruption around an authorized protest from 12:00 PM local time at Chokan Valikhanov Square. Participants have made various demands, including the release of political prisoners.
KYRGYZSTAN
Throughout November, travelers in urban centers should continue to exercise caution, monitor developments, and avoid all gatherings related to forthcoming Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. On October 22, Parliament passed a law delaying the re-run Parliamentary Election until at least June 1, 2021, to permit constitutional reforms to be enacted. The next Presidential Election is currently scheduled for January 10, 2021. Widespread unrest has diminished following the October 15 resignation of former President Sooronbay Jeenbekov. Newly-appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov has also assumed the role of interim President until elections are held.
MONGOLIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Mongolia, where internal restrictions have been imposed in Ulaanbaatar. All outbound travel options, including domestic flights, passenger trains and travel via private vehicles, have been temporarily halted until at least 11:00 PM local time on November 13. Entertainment and recreational venues in the city have suspended operations until further notice, and schools will remain closed until at least November 14. Public gatherings have also been banned.
NEW CALEDONIA
Throughout November, travelers in Noumea and other urban centers in South province should monitor developments on the planned sale of a major nickel plant in Goro. Groups opposed to the sale have stated that they will hold fresh gatherings over the issue and have threatened to block access to the plant, though further details have not been announced. An announcement about the sale is expected in the coming days. On October 30, thousands attended a related rally in Noumea. Precedent suggests that further protests are likely to focus around the New Caledonian Government Complex, the French High Commission, and Hotel de la Province Sud.
NEW ZEALAND
Travelers in areas affected by severe flooding in Napier and its environs should anticipate disruption until floodwaters recede. They should plan journeys accordingly in the coming days. A local State of Emergency continues to be in place for Napier following severe flooding and associated landslides caused by heavy rains overnight on November 9-10. The Meteorological Service of New Zealand has forecast ‘fine’ weather conditions for Napier in the coming days. Nonetheless, disruption to road travel and certain essential services such as electricity may persist in the coming days until restoration work is complete.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to avoid protests by both ruling and opposition parties. Anti-government protests organized by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) are set to continue until January 2021, while the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be expected to occasionally stage counter-rallies. Traffic disruption and heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations.
PHILIPPINES
Travelers on Luzon island until at least November 13 should continue to minimize non-essential movement in areas worst-affected by flooding due to the passage of Typhoon Vamco (locally known as Ulysses). Worst-affected areas include Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Bicol regions. Other areas in the north of Luzon may experience heavy rainfall and flooding at short notice. Travelers should monitor the situation in their locations closely and follow all official directives, including any evacuation orders. Disruption to transport can be expected in affected areas until November 13, including flights at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL).
SINGAPORE
Travelers should continue to defer travel to Singapore, where new COVID-19-related entry requirements will go into effect from 11:59 AM local time on November 17. Under these measures, all inbound foreign travelers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours before their departure. Returning Singapore citizens and permanent residents, as well as travelers from low-risk countries, are exempted.
VIETNAM
Travelers in central provinces should anticipate disruption until at least November 16 during the passage of Tropical Storm Vamco. The storm is currently moving west across the South China Sea and is forecast to make landfall on the coast between Quang Binh and Quang Nam provinces on November 15, bringing strong winds and heavy rain. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has maintained a ‘Level 3’ disaster risk warning (middle on a five-tier scale) ahead of Vamco’s arrival.
EUROPE
Travelers in Armenia and Azerbaijan should monitor developments in the coming days 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. Prime Minister Pashinyan earlier announced a cessation of hostilities with immediate effect as of 1:00 AM local time. Additionally, protests broke out earlier in Armenia’s capital Yerevan following the announcement of the peace agreement. Travelers in Armenia’s urban centers should anticipate further protests in the coming hours.
ARMENIA
Travelers in urban centers should avoid further gatherings linked to the recent signing of a peace deal with Azerbaijan, due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. The agreement is related to the conflict over NagornoKarabakh, and travelers should abide by ongoing martial law provisions. On November 11, a well-attended protest took place at Freedom Square in Yerevan, during which participants called for the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Demonstrators also marched towards the National Assembly, resulting in scuffles with security forces.
AZERBAIJAN
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate large celebratory gatherings in the coming days following the signing of a peace agreement related to Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia. The agreement, brokered by Russia, was signed overnight on November 9-10. Celebratory gatherings have been reported, including in Baku and Ganja. Further large gatherings are likely in the coming days. While these will remain peaceful, associated disruption can be expected. Travelers should avoid all gatherings to minimize inconvenience.
GEORGIA
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further gatherings related to the October 31 Parliamentary Elections due to the credible risk of unrest. Preliminary results from the Central Election Commission (CEC) indicate that the ruling Georgian Dream party obtained almost 49% of the vote. The largest opposition party, the United National Movement, received 27% of votes. All opposition parties have refused to take their seats in Parliament and are demanding fresh elections. Security forces are likely to use heavy-handed tactics to disperse protesters, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Tbilisi on November 14 should plan journeys bypassing a protest organized by the opposition United National Movement as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather at 3:00 PM local time on Shota Rustaveli Avenue to denounce the results of the October 31 Parliamentary Elections. Local traffic disruption can be expected in the vicinity of the event. Security forces may also employ heavy handed tactics to disperse protesters, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
GERMANY
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid demonstrations by the “Querdenken” (Lateral Thinking) movement over COVID-19 restrictions. On November 14, marches are planned at 12:00 PM local time from Kaiserstrasse to Goetheplatz in Frankfurt and at 11:00 AM local time from Friedenstrasse to Dultplatz in Regensburg. On November 15, activists will march at 3:00 PM local time from Rheinwiesen to the city center in Dusseldorf. Local unrest was reported during previous associated gatherings.
Travelers in Dortmund over the coming hour should avoid the Hohenbuschei area during the disposal of a Second World War bomb. An evacuation of a 2,624-foot exclusion zone will take place from 1:30 PM local time on November 12. The evacuation area encompasses the Dortmund and Hamm central stations, affecting rail services. Travelers should follow all official directives and anticipate disruption during the disposal operation.
GREECE
Travelers on essential travel in Greece should abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown is ongoing until at least November 30. Additionally, from November 13, a curfew will be observed from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Only essential movement, such as for work purposes, is allowed during curfew hours. All movement requires permission from authorities.
POLAND
Travelers in urban centers over the coming days should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over a controversial court ruling restricting abortion rights, due to the risk of unrest. Despite a delay in the implementation of the ruling, fresh gatherings are due to be announced shortly by major organizers. Previous demonstrations have attracted large turnouts, with participants often blocking key roads and clashing with rival protesters. Police are liable to forcibly disperse further rallies, particularly given an ongoing COVID-19-related ban on gatherings of more than five people.
SPAIN
Travelers on essential travel to Spain should abide by an overnight curfew and city- and regionwide restrictions in place until at least November 23. A curfew from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time is effective nationwide (except in the Canary Islands), though regional authorities may vary the start and end times by one hour. Restrictions on entry to and egress from 12 of the country’s 15 mainland autonomous communities and the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla are in force. Additional short-notice restrictions can be expected. Travelers are advised to reconfirm region- and city-specific measures.
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19-related restrictions, due to the risk of local unrest. Disruptive demonstrations have intensified since October 9 following the announcement of tighter restrictions. On November 7, hundreds of anti-vaccine and antilockdown demonstrators gathered in Madrid. At least 12 were injured in clashes between protesters and police. Announcements of additional restrictions are likely to trigger further discontent and unrest.
UNITED KINGDOM
Travelers in the UK should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions after the government reintroduced a lockdown in England through December 2. The measure entails advice to stay at home except for specific purposes and restrictions on social gatherings and business activities. Separate regulations apply to Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
