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 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 further demonstrations over issues involving the November 3 General Election and police reform. 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 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 should reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires which have killed at least 32 people and caused more than 300,000 others to be evacuated. While most of the fires have been largely contained, residual disruption is possible in affected areas.
COLORADO
Travelers in Colorado Springs, CO should exercise caution and follow official directives related to the “Bear Creek” wildfire that started on November 19 in the Bear Creek area. The fire remains completely uncontained, and Evacuation Orders have been issued for around 235 homes in the vicinity of Bear Creek Park. No injuries have so far been reported. Portions of Bear Creek Road are closed, as well as roads near North Cheyenne Canon and Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
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.
E. COLI OUTBREAKS
Investigations are underway to determine the source of two outbreaks of the bacteria E. coli, which has infected more than 40 people in at least 14 states. No food source has been identified yet. E. coli spreads through contaminated food, as well as from one person to another. It can cause gastroenteritis, with symptoms of abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Most people recover without treatment. Some people, especially young children and the elderly, can develop serious complications. To prevent infection, travelers should pay attention to hygiene, ensure all fruit and vegetables are washed in safe water, and any meats are thoroughly cooked before consumption. Travelers should avoid raw milk, other unpasteurized dairy products, and unpasteurized juices. Cooked foods are safest.
NEVADA
Travelers in Washoe County, NV should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to an ongoing wildfire. The Pinehaven Fire began on November 17 in the county seat Reno, near Pinehaven Road and Sierra Pine Drive, and has prompted mandatory evacuations for Washoe residents, particularly west of Reno. Parts of South McCarran Boulevard are closed. The Mayor of Reno has signed an emergency declaration and urged people to avoid affected areas. Power in multiple neighborhoods in affected areas has been cut as a precaution.
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 are advised to defer all travel due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health care situation in the country. Due to the surge in COVID-19 cases, access to medical care is not assured. Hospitals are at or near capacity in some areas, and there are reports that oxygen may be in short supply.
BRAZIL
A local couple was shot and injured on November 21 while driving through the Jardim Catarina neighborhood of Sao Goncalo municipality in the Rio de Janeiro Metropolitan Region. The incident occurred as the victims took a different route, as prompted by the vehicle’s GPS, to avoid traffic on the Niteroi-Manilha Highway. When stopped at a traffic signal, the victims’ car was shot at by suspected drug dealers in the area. The incident highlights the risk posed by violent crime in the neighborhoods surrounding Rio de Janeiro. Travelers are advised against self-driving in Brazil, unless familiar with the local environment and the security situation.
Travelers in Curitiba in the coming hours should plan journeys bypassing a planned protest by teachers at Praca 19 de Dezembro. Demonstrators plan to gather at 9:00 AM local time to urge the governor to revoke a measure on the assigning of teachers to temporary positions. While the demonstration is expected to pass off peacefully, it is liable to cause local traffic disruption in its vicinity.
CHILE
Travelers in Chile over the coming days should anticipate disruption during rallies associated with an indefinite health workers’ strike from November 23. The Fenats union will undertake the action in connection with a protracted dispute over working conditions and bonuses. Likely venues for demonstrations in main cities include public squares and government buildings. In Santiago, recent precedent suggests that Plaza Baquedano and La Moneda are among probable protest sites.
COLOMBIA
Travelers in Bogota in the coming hours should plan journeys bypassing a planned demonstration marking the anniversary of a protester’s killing during nationwide protests in 2019. The ADE teachers’ union has called for a demonstration in the city center beginning at 2:00 PM local time at the intersection of Calle 19 and Carrera 4. While the demonstration is intended to remain peaceful, related protests on November 21 turned unruly when protesters clashed with security forces, resulting in one injury and two arrests. Similar disturbances cannot be ruled out, and any unrest would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
FRENCH GUIANA
Travelers in Cayenne over the coming weeks should plan journeys bypassing potential further protest in solidarity with civil society activist Olivier Goudet. On November 21, demonstrators marched through the city to denounce the controversial sentencing of Goudet to six months in prison on charges of apology of terrorism. Further associated rallies are likely; such events should be avoided as a precaution and due to the risk of unrest.
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 during the passage of Tropical Storm Eta has prompted the closure of the airport until at least November 25. The airport will still accept humanitarian aid flights during the closure.
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 or traveling to Mexico state should avoid any further demonstrations by transport sector workers due to credible risk of violent unrest. On November 21-22, taxi and public transport drivers clashed with tow truck drivers in Atizapan de Zaragoza after the latter erected roadblocks in protest. A bus driver was killed, and several vehicles were set alight. On November 19, a taxi driver was killed in Ecatepec de Morelos after a protest devolved into a shootout with police, several of whom were injured. Any further protests carry the risk of turning violent, posing significant risks to bystanders.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
BURKINA FASO
Travelers in Burkina Faso in the coming days should monitor developments and continue to avoid all gatherings following the November 22 legislative and presidential elections. Provisional results are likely to be announced by November 25. The elections passed off peacefully despite a tense campaign and the threat of militancy. While largescale unrest remains unlikely, related gatherings may occur, particularly following opposition accusations of electoral fraud. All gatherings should be avoided as a precaution.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Through November 30, travelers should continue to exercise caution and avoid protests linked to the October 31 Presidential Election amid an extended ban on gatherings. 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 fatal unrest on November 9-10 in several locations and opposition strongholds. On November 11, Ouattara met with opposition leader and former President 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.
ETHIOPIA
Reports indicate that several rockets were fired towards Bahir Dar in the past few hours. The projectiles were reportedly launched by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). They landed near Bahir Dar Airport (BJR). There have been no reports of any casualties or material damage. Authorities in Amhara have not yet confirmed the incident. Travelers in Bahir Dar should monitor developments and stand fast in the coming hours.
GHANA
Travelers in main cities should continue to avoid all campaign events linked to the December 7 General Election, as a precaution. Twelve candidates are contesting the Presidential Election, most notably incumbent Nana Akufo-Addo, of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), and his predecessor John Dramani Mahama (in office 2012-17), of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). While the electoral period is expected to pass off without major incident, in-country travelers should remain apprised of developments. Low-level security incidents, such as targeted attacks or clashes between supporters of rival parties, are possible.
IRAQ
One civilian was killed, and five others were injured, late on November 17 after at least four rockets were fired towards the International Zone (IZ) in Baghdad. Three of the projectiles landed outside the IZ, while the fourth struck near the US Embassy. Ashab al-Kahf, a pro-Iranian armed group, reportedly claimed responsibility for the attack via social media. The incident highlights the persistent risk of rocket attacks in and the need to minimize time spent around potential targets, including US military and diplomatic interests.
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.
LEBANON
Travelers in Lebanon should continue to avoid non-essential travel to Baalbek-Hermel governorate following the latest round of clan violence. Armed clashes broke out on November 22 in the al-Buwayda and al-Nasiriyah areas in response to an earlier shooting which injured three people. Although clashes between local families are not uncommon in the governorate, the latest incident highlights the high travel risks in the area.
MOROCCO
Travelers in Morocco over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests by teachers due to the risk of unrest. On November 22, protesters gathered in several cities across the country, including in Rabat, Casablanca and Fez, to denounce a controversial contractual hiring system. In Casablanca, several demonstrators were arrested following scuffles with police. Further related gatherings are likely to be forcibly dispersed by authorities, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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.
Until at least December 7, travelers in the Rumuokoro district of Port Harcourt should exercise caution and abide by a 24-hour curfew. During the curfew, all movement, gatherings and trading activities are banned. The measure was announced on November 22 following an upsurge in violence associated with cult activities and highlights the need for robust security precautions and to avoid non-essential travel to the city.
SAUDI ARABIA
Travelers in Jeddah should continue to monitor developments in the coming hours following earlier reports of a rocket attack against an oil facility. International media outlets have reported that the Yemen-based Houthi group has claimed responsibility for the attack, though the Saudi authorities have neither confirmed nor commented on the incident.
SOUTH AFRICA
Travelers in Cape Town in the coming hours should plan journeys avoiding New Market Street due to an ongoing police operation. The street has been cordoned off following a shooting around 12:00 PM local time near Cape Town station. Police are at the scene and have arrested a suspect. Unconfirmed reports suggest the shooting is related to tensions between taxi drivers over operation routes. An unconfirmed number of people were injured in the shooting.
Travelers in Durban on November 23, 24 and 25 should anticipate and avoid further anti-immigration protests organized by the African National Congress’ Umkhonto weSizwe Military Veterans’ Association (MKMVA). The demonstrations come after an increase in threats and attacks against foreigners and nationalized South Africans running businesses in the city. Since early November, protesters have been forcefully closing and looting foreignowned shops across the city, demanding that their owners leave the country. During previous protests, police have used rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the crowds. Further related gatherings are likely and should be avoided as a precaution due to the credible risk of unrest. Heightened security measures and associated disruption should be expected.
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.
TONGA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Tonga, where COVID-19-related restrictions remain in force. Authorities have extended a State of Emergency until at least 8:00 PM local time on December 21. Meanwhile, a nationwide nightly curfew remains in place from 12:01 AM to 5:00 AM local time. Gatherings are limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors. All activities and gatherings will also be required to comply with social distancing and health ministry requirements for sanitation and hygiene.
TUNISIA
Travelers in Tunisia on November 26 should plan routes bypassing planned countrywide demonstrations by journalists, as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience. Travelers of the SNJT union from 11:00 AM local time will gather for a so-called “day of anger,” to demand the government implement a joint framework agreement on journalists’ rights. In Tunis, participants will assemble at Government Square, followed by a rally at the SNJT headquarters. This is due to be followed by a nationwide journalists’ strike on December 10. There is potential for local unrest if security forces break up the November 26 gatherings, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Tataouine from November 23 should plan journeys bypassing protests in front of local governorate offices in Cite Tahrir district. Travelers of the Regional Labor Union will gather there daily between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM local time to demand payment of salary arrears for workers of the local environmental, planting and gardening company. The events should be avoided as a precaution and to minimize travel delays.
Travelers in Tunisia until at least November 23 should plan journeys accounting to disruption following heavy rain. The National Meteorological Institute (INM) on November 22 issued an orange alert (second-highest on a four-tier scale) for the governorates of Greater Tunis, Beja, Bizerte, Jendouba, Kairouan, Mahdia, Monastir, Nabeul, Sfax, Siliana, Sousse and Zaghouan. A yellow alert (third-highest on the scale) is in place for the rest of the county. Traffic along RN9 and RN8 highways has been disrupted, and traffic congestions are likely along alternative routes. Travelers should liaise with local contacts regarding the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
UGANDA
Throughout November, 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 was recently certified as a Presidential candidate in the 2021 elections. Campaign rallies by Kyagulanyi are under way despite being commonly denied authorization from officials. These events are well attended and often forcefully dispersed by police due to being unauthorized. On November 11, police deployed tear gas, among other measures, in Gulu and Kitgum districts during unauthorized pro- Kyagulanyi rallies.
Travelers in Western region in the coming hours should avoid campaign rallies by the opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (popularly known as Bobi Wine). This is due to the credible risk of unrest. Kyagulanyi is currently heading to Fort Portal. His supporters at earlier rallies in Kyegegwa were reportedly dispersed by police using tear gas. Heavy traffic was also reported when his convoy entered Kyenjojo. Rallies have taken place amid a heavy security force presence. Travelers should avoid the vicinity of affected areas as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
CHINA
Travelers in China should continue to monitor developments and defer non-essential travel to Kashgar. Authorities have decreased the COVID-19-related risk level in all of Kashgar to “Low Risk;” however, restrictions on outbound travelers, including the requirements to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within seven days before departure and quarantine upon entering other provinces, remain in place until further notice. Authorities may announce measures at short notice.
Travelers in China should continue to defer non-essential travel to areas of Shanghai and Tianjin municipalities where restrictions have been tightened following increases in COVID-19 cases. More than 200 flights were reportedly cancelled at Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) on November 22, after the detection of COVID-19 cases among cargo handlers. The airport remains operational. The risk rating for some residential communities in Shanghai’s Zhangjiang, Zhoupuand Zhuqiao towns have been raised to ‘medium’ (middle on a three-tier scale), while Yingqiancun will be downgraded to ‘low’ (lowest on the scale) from November 24. Travelers should monitor developments and reconfirm related restrictions before departure.
INDIA
On November 26-27, travelers should avoid further protests over new farm laws. The All India Kisan Sangharsh Coordination Committee (AIKSCC) farmers’ organization plans to hold related demonstrations in Jantar Mantar in New Delhi; 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 the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Telangana and Tamil Nadu, as well as Puducherry Union Territory, should expect heavy rains and associated disruption in the coming days. A depression currently over the Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm. It is forecast to move in a northwesterly direction and to make landfall on the afternoon of November 25 between Karaikal and Mahabalipuram.
Travelers in Maharashtra state on November 23 should avoid statewide protests called by the local opposition Bharatiya Janata Party as a precaution. Participants will protest a lack of government relief for electricity costs. Potential protest locations include local government buildings and political party offices in urban centers across the state, including Mumbai. Heightened security is expected around protest venues. Police are liable to forcibly disperse protests, in part due to COVID-19-related restrictions on gatherings, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
INDONESIA
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 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.
MALAYSIA
Travelers should continue to defer travel to Malaysia, where further COVID-19-related restrictions are in force. This assessment is made jointly by our medical and security professionals. Authorities have extended the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in Kuching district until November 27, while imposing it in Kelantan state until December 6. Meanwhile, the CMCO has been lifted in parts of Johor and Kedah states, and all of Melaka and Terengganu states; however, Mersing and Kota Tinggi districts, Kulim district, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, Sabah and Selangor states, as well as the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya, remain under the regulation until December 6.
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.
Poor air quality has been recorded in several cities including Islamabad and Lahore. Polluted air can cause symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and irritation of the eyes and nose. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with underlying heart or lung disease are particularly vulnerable. To lessen the risk of potential health problems, travelers should reduce exposure by decreasing time and physical activity outdoors.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Throughout November, travelers should continue to monitor developments and avoid any gatherings following a controversial Parliamentary session on November 17. After the Parliamentary Speaker declared that a previous suspension of Parliament until December 1 was invalid, around 50 lawmakers allied with Prime Minister James Marape passed the 2021 budget. Parliament is now suspended until April 20, with the opposition challenging the legality of the November 17 session through the Supreme Court. While no related protests have yet occurred or been announced, demonstrations outside government buildings are possible amid ongoing political uncertainty.
SINGAPORE
Travel to Singapore may proceed, subject to entry restrictions and the establishment of bilateral travel arrangements. ‘Safe Travel’ arrangements are in place with Australia, Brunei, mainland China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Vietnam. The latest such accord was negotiated between Singapore and Hong Kong and will begin on November 22. Further arrangements may follow in the coming weeks. The requirements for travel vary depending on the specific arrangements.
SRI LANKA
Travelers in Eastern, Northern, and North Central provinces should minimize non-essential movement until at least November 26. These areas are forecast to be the worst-affected during the passage of a likely cyclone. Travelers in other areas should anticipate travel disruption. The weather system currently in the Bay of Bengal is forecast to intensify into a cyclone on November 24-25. Dozens of flights have been cancelled at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). Additionally, heavy rains are likely to cause landslides in mountainous areas, flooding in low-lying areas and storm surges in coastal locations.
TAIWAN
Travelers in Taipei in the coming days should anticipate and avoid protests over the lifting of a ban on the import of US pork and beef. On November 22, thousands of participants staged a protest in downtown Taipei near the Presidential Office and the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) headquarters. With the ban due to be lifted on January 1, 2021, labor groups and other organizations have expressed concerns that such imports would contain banned additives. The main opposition party Kuomintang (KMT) is expected to continue rallying supporters to join further protests.
THAILAND
Through November 25, travelers in urban centers should continue to monitor developments and avoid all gatherings. Large demonstrations on November 17 escalated into unrest in which more than 50 people were injured in intermittent clashes, including six reportedly by gunshots. A fresh gathering is planned for November 21 in Bangkok. While the exact details of the anti-government protest have yet to be announced, a large turnout is expected. A separate anti-government gathering will be held on November 25 in front of the Crown Property Bureau in Bangkok. Tensions remain high, especially in Bangkok, and further gatherings are possible. Any unrest would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
EUROPE
DENMARK
Travelers in Copenhagen in the coming hours should avoid the vicinity of Sankt Petri Passage in the city center due to an ongoing security operation following a stabbing incident that took place at around 12:15 AM local time. Police have cordoned off several streets in the area. Travelers planning to travel nearby should reconfirm routes before setting out.
Travelers in Copenhagen and other urban centers in the coming days should plan itineraries accounting for traffic disruption during further protests by local farmers. On November 21, protesters drove their tractors through central areas of Copenhagen and Aarhus to denounce authorities’ decision to slaughter more than 15 million minks due to a COVID-19 variant affecting the livestock. Further demonstrations are likely to cause significant disruption and should be bypassed to minimize delays.
FRANCE
Travelers on essential travel to France should abide by measures related to a nationwide lockdown in place until at least December 1 and a State of Health Emergency in place until at least February 16, 2021. Only essential movement for proven work-related reasons, health reasons or emergencies is allowed, with a mandatory certificate. All public gatherings are banned. Travelers are advised to reconfirm region- and city-specific measures as there is a potential for sudden changes in local restrictions and containment measures.
On November 26, travelers should plan journeys bypassing a protest planned by restaurateurs against a COVID-19- related lockdown, which has forced eateries and cafeterias to shut shop. Participants will gather at 2:00 PM local time at the Old Port and march towards the Prefecture. Although the protest is expected to pass off peacefully, any violation of COVID-19 restrictions is likely to invoke a response from security forces. Travelers are advised to avoid the protest as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should expect disruption during further demonstrations over controversial national security legislation. While fresh protests are scheduled on November 24 to coincide with a formal vote on the law in the National Assembly, spontaneous demonstrations ahead of the vote are likely. Local unrest occurred during related demonstrations across the country on November 21, including in Paris. Renewed gatherings are likely to be forcibly dispersed by security forces, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Lyon on November 23 should plan journeys bypassing a protest against COVID-19-related restrictions as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. Local hospitality workers will gather at Place Bellecour at 2:30 PM local time, before marching along Rue du President Edouard Herriot towards Place des Terreaux. They will be denouncing the forced closure of restaurants, hotels, and other businesses in the hospitality industry amid the pandemic. While the event is likely to pass off peacefully, police are liable to disperse crowds to enforce ongoing COVID-19-related regulations.
Travelers in Grenoble on November 23 should plan journeys bypassing a protest by hospitality sectors workers against COVID-19-related restrictions. Participants will gather at 3:00 PM local time at Place de Verdun. While the event is expected to pass off peacefully, it is liable to cause local travel disruption.
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.
Travelers visiting Greece on essential travel on November 25 and 26, including via Athens International Airport (ATH), should anticipate disruption and reconfirm flights. The country’s air traffic control staff has joined a nationwide general strike against the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and controversial new labor legislations. The industrial action will be observed from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time on November 25 and from 12:01 AM to 11:59 PM local time on November 26. The strike is likely to affect both international and domestic flights.
ITALY
On November 25, travelers should anticipate disruption and avoid protests during a 24-hour general strike organized by the USB and USI trade unions. An associated demonstration is scheduled to take place at Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome at 9:30 AM local time. Protests are also likely outside Ministry of Economy and Finance buildings in major cities across the country. The work stoppage will affect public transportation in Rome between 8:30 AM and 12:30 PM local time and other services such as public health and education across the country throughout the day.
NETHERLANDS
Through December 5, travelers in urban centers should avoid demonstrations against the controversial Christmas character, Zwarte Piet. The character appears in parades every November, but his traditional blackface costume make-up has been accused by the UN and anti-racist groups of perpetuating racist stereotypes. There is a risk of minor disturbances if counter-protests are held in close proximity.
POLAND
Travelers in urban centers over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests over a controversial court ruling restricting abortion rights. Activists have organized a caravan protest on November 23 at 4:00 PM local time in Warsaw, though no location has been announced yet. Previous demonstrations have attracted large turnouts, with participants often blocking key roads and clashing with rival protesters. Weekly protests are usually held on Mondays. Police are liable to forcibly disperse further rallies, particularly given an ongoing COVID-19-related ban on gatherings of more than five people.
PORTUGAL
Travelers in Portugal should continue to abide by official directives following the extension of a curfew amid a COVID-19-related State of Emergency until at least December 8. The curfew concerns 174 municipalities (locally known as concelhos), including Lisbon and Porto. It is in place from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time on weekdays and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time on weekends. A nationwide ban on inter-municipal travel between the hours of 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM local time on weekends will also be effective on November 27 – December 2 and December 4-9.
SPAIN
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.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should plan journeys bypassing demonstrations over a controversial education law by the ‘Mas Plurales’ alliance of student associations, labor unions, and civil-society groups. Gatherings are planned for November 24, 26 and 28. Previous protests across urban centers on November 22 passed off peacefully but caused significant traffic disruption, including in Madrid.
UNITED KINGDOM
On December 25-30, rail travelers in London should plan journeys accounting for the closure of the Kings Cross railway station due to maintenance work. No trains will run via the station during this time, though replacement bus services will be available.
Travelers in the UK should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions after the government reintroduced a lockdown in England until at least 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.
Travelers planning rail travel to or from London between November 28 and January 3 should account for disruption at Kings Cross station due to maintenance works. No trains will run via the station on December 25-30, though replacement bus services will be available. Services will also operate on reduced schedules on November 28-29, December 24 and December 31 – January 3, 2021.
