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
WORLDWIDE
MAWLID AL-NABI
Travelers should anticipate business disruption associated with Mawlid al-Nabi, the Islamic holiday marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, on October 29-30. Mawlid al-Nabi is a public holiday in most Muslim-majority countries and other countries with large Muslim communities. Banks and businesses are likely to be closed during the holiday. It coincides with widespread COVID-19-related restrictions and recent remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron in relation to controversial caricatures of Prophet Muhammad (see regional alert). Although the holiday is expected to pass off peacefully, Macron’s recent comments have triggered local protests in some Muslim-majority countries; further gatherings are likely in the coming days. Travelers should expect heightened security and monitor local media for country-specific updates.
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.
HURRICANE ZETA
Travelers in Gulf Coast states over the coming days should continue to defer travel to areas in the path of Hurricane Zeta. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the weather system will make landfall on October 28 afternoon in southeastern Louisiana. It will then move close to the coast of Mississippi on the evening of October 28, before proceeding towards southeastern and eastern parts of the country. The hurricane is forecast to weaken on October 29. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for residents in Jefferson, Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes in Louisiana.
WILDFIRES
Several wildfires across the west coast are impacting air quality. 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 and lung disease (high-risk groups) are particularly vulnerable. To lessen the risk of potential health problems, travelers are advised to reduce exposure by decreasing time and physical activity outdoors. COVID-19 is circulating, and separate evacuation centers are available if anyone has symptoms of COVID19.
CALIFORNIA
Travelers in California over the coming days should continue to reconfirm the status of routes and follow official directives amid multiple ongoing wildfires. The blazes 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 31 people have so far been killed, and more than 300,000 others evacuated.
Travelers in Los Angeles, California should anticipate disruption in the coming hours due to ongoing celebrations related to the victory of a local baseball team, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Celebrations are likely to continue on October 28 and may turn unruly. Travelers should plan journeys bypassing the celebratory gatherings.
NEW YORK CITY
Travelers in New York City in the coming hours should avoid downtown Brooklyn due to ongoing protests and associated unrest. A driver is reported to have run over police officers. Large numbers of emergency personnel are on-site. Travelers should expect increased traffic congestion, plan alternative routes, and allow additional travel time.
PENNSYLVANIA
Travelers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania should avoid the Port Richmond area amid reports of looting near Castor and Aramingo avenues. Police are responding to the disturbances.
Travelers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania should avoid the Cobbs Creek neighborhood due to ongoing protests. Police have closed Pine and South 55th streets in an attempt to block the protesters’ march. Travelers should plan alternative routes.
CANADA
Authorities have extended the closure of the US-Canada border to non-essential travel (including recreation and tourism purposes) through November 21 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border freight movement is still permitted. Canadian authorities have taken additional measures amid reports of US Nationals entering the country on non-essential journeys. All travel to Canada should be deferred, unless coming directly from the US for essential purposes or otherwise exempt from COVID-19-related restrictions.
On October 31, travelers in Toronto should plan journeys bypassing protests at 12:00 PM local time at YongeDundas Square. “The Line” activist group will hold the demonstrations against restrictions linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The rallies are expected to pass off peacefully but are likely to cause local traffic disruption.
CHILE
Travelers in Chile should anticipate and avoid further celebratory and anti-government demonstrations in the coming weeks following the October 25 Constitutional Referendum. Flashpoints in urban centers include major public squares and government buildings. Daily rallies occurred throughout the country ahead of the plebiscite as well as celebratory gatherings immediately following the referendum. Such gatherings are expected to continue, particularly in Santiago, where mass gatherings occurred on October 25. Rallies have resulted in confrontations between participants and police, transport disruption and acts of vandalism.
EL SALVADOR
Travelers in urban centers on October 28 should avoid rallies at 8:00 AM local time by municipal workers. In San Salvador, a rally will be held at the finance ministry building. The protests are being held to demand that the federal government pay the outstanding municipal development fund.
PERU
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. There is a severe shortage of general hospital and intensive care beds. Oxygen is also in short supply.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
Travelers in the Middle East 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 celebrations for the Prophet Muhammad’s birthday 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.
COTE D’ IVOIRE
Travelers should anticipate and avoid protests ahead of the October 31 Presidential Election. Due the credible risk for unrest, all movements should be minimized on polling day. An official ban on all gatherings remains in effect until November 1 amid a civil disobedience campaign called by the opposition; however, the measure has failed to deter protesters. Recent protests held in Bonoua, Dabou, and Bongouanou escalated into unrest and confrontation between rival supporters, where at least 20 people were killed. Further rallies could escalate into clashes involving participants, security forces and counter-demonstrators, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Daoukro should continue to minimize movement and reconfirm routes before undertaking essential travel until at least November 1. This follows unrest during recent opposition protests. Clashes on October 27-28 were reported between demonstrators and security force personnel, with the latter using tear gas and live ammunition to disperse crowds. Protesters also set fire to the local Independent Electoral Commission headquarters and blocked traffic, impeding entrance to and egress from the city. Further bouts of unrest are likely to prompt local authorities to implement overnight curfews.
ETHIOPIA
Travelers in Amhara region on October 28 and Addis Ababa on November 1 should plan journeys avoiding opposition rallies. The National Movement of Amhara (NaMA) is organizing the rallies to condemn the recent spate of attacks against ethnic-Amharas. The attacks reportedly killed at least 31 people and injured five others in Bench Sheko zone in Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region (SNNPR) on October 18 and 21. At least 1,400 households have been displaced during the violence. Travelers should liaise with local contacts to remain apprised of related gatherings and avoid areas experiencing unrest to minimize incidental exposure to violence.
GUINEA
Travelers in the coming days should avoid all gatherings linked to the results of the Presidential Election due to the potential for unrest. On October 23, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) released provisional results indicating a potential win for incumbent President Alpha Conde. At least 21 people have been killed in postelection violence. On October 26, the opposition National Front for the Defense of the Constitution (FNDC) coalition launched a renewed campaign of civil disobedience, causing limited disruption in the northern districts of Conakry. Travelers should exercise caution, as tensions are likely to remain high in the medium term.
LIBERIA
Travelers in urban centers over the coming days should avoid nationwide protests by opposition parties from October 28, due to the risk of unrest. The Collaborating Political Parties (CPP) coalition is demanding that the National Elections Commission institute reforms of the electoral process ahead of the December 8 senatorial polls. The demonstrations are likely to be well attended and accompanied by a significant police presence. 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
Through November 6, travelers in urban centers should expect disruption and avoid all protests related to an ongoing public sector strike. Unions are calling for pay increases and for the government to free all hostages currently detained by armed groups. A peaceful demonstration occurred at Place de l’Independance in Bamako on October 15, though local disturbances cannot be ruled out during further gatherings.
Travelers in Bamako on October 28 should plan journeys bypassing a planned protest at the Grand Mosque at 2:00 PM local time. The protest is being held over comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron about controversial caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. The protest coincides with the observance of Mawlid al-Nabi, an important Islamic holiday marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad. Macron’s comments may exacerbate long-standing anti-French sentiment in Mali and the upcoming gathering may adopt an overall anti-French tone.
NAMIBIA
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests against gender-based violence. Demonstrators have called for the resignation of the Minister of Gender Equality, Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare by October 31. Protests are likely to take place if this demand is not met. Demonstrators are also calling for the imposition of a State of Emergency amid increasing incidents of violence against women. Regular demonstrations have taken place since October 8 in Windhoek and other urban centers. Gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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.
Travelers in Nigeria over the coming days should exercise heightened caution and abide by curfews imposed following recent clashes and looting. Anti-police brutality rallies continued in some states on October 22-23 in defiance of curfews. While such protests are beginning to subside, they often lead to clashes involving security forces, protesters and thugs. Separately, looting of official buildings and infrastructure has erupted in several states, which has been met with either continued or reinforced curfews. Tensions remain high, and fresh outbreaks of unrest are likely.
Travelers in Abuja in the coming days should exercise heightened caution amid sporadic reports of looting and vandalism following recent clashes. While anti-police brutality protests have started to subside, reports of unidentified thugs looting official buildings and infrastructure continue to increase. Further acts of vandalism could escalate into clashes between security forces and the perpetrators, posing incidental risks to bystanders. Travelers should continue to avoid all gatherings due to the credible risk of unrest and expect heightened security across the city.
SENEGAL
Travelers in Dakar on October 28 and 30 should plan journeys bypassing protests organized by civil society organizations to denounce the provisional results of the recent Presidential Election in Guinea. On both days, activists will gather at 4:00 PM local time at Place de la Nation and march to Rond Point de la RTS. Police dispersed a related demonstration at the Guinean Embassy on October 21 with tear gas. Local authorities have warned against repeated protests.
SOMALIA
At least five people were killed, and ten others injured, on October 27 during an attack in Kahda district in Mogadishu. According to local authorities, militants shot and killed two government officials before detonating a car bomb that killed three other civilians. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the Islamist extremist al-Shabab group has been responsible for previous similar attacks in the city. The incident highlights the persistent militant threat in the capital, where the travel risks are extreme. Travelers should minimize non-essential travel outside secure premises.
SOUTH AFRICA
Travelers in central Durban on October 30 should anticipate disruption during a vehicle rally by the KwaZulu-Natal Private Ambulance Association. The exact route has not been announced, but participants will drive their ambulances and response vehicles to the Road Accident Fund office. Private ambulance companies are protesting over unpaid services.
Travelers in Johannesburg on October 28-29 should avoid the vicinity of the Randburg Magistrates’ Court as a precaution. Julius Malema, the leader of the opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, and EFF lawmaker, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, are due to stand trial there for allegedly assaulting a police officer. Supporters of the defendants are likely to gather outside the building during the proceedings. This is liable to cause local disruption, while any scuffles between those present and police could pose incidental risk to bystanders.
SUDAN
Travelers in Sudan in the coming days should avoid further protests related to the normalization of relations with Israel due to the risk of local unrest. Dozens of demonstrators gathered in Khartoum on October 23 following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of the decision. Several political parties have denounced the agreement.
ZAMBIA
Travelers in Lusaka on October 30 should plan journeys bypassing a rally by the youth league of the opposition Movement for Multiparty Democracy. Participants will march from the University of Zambia (UNZA) footbridge along Great East Road to the Central Police Station. The rally is being held to denounce alleged police brutality.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
Travelers should anticipate protests in the coming weeks in Muslim-majority areas of the region, particularly Pakistan and Bangladesh. Demonstrations are being organized against the recent alleged Islamophobic comments by French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron’s comment came after the beheading of a teacher in France by a lone assailant. The attack has been linked to the cartoons depicting the Muslim prophet Muhammad by the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo. Travelers should monitor local developments closely and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.
AUSTRALIA
Travelers in Victoria state, particularly in the Melbourne metropolitan area (MMA), should continue follow all official directions and comply with ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. In addition to the lifting of an existing lockdown in the MMA on October 28, further easing of restrictions have also been announced. People will be allowed to leave their residences. Restaurants, hotels, bars and pubs can resume operations with limited capacity, while all retail shops can reopen under strict health guidelines; however, the border between the MMA and regional Victoria will remain in place.
BANGLADESH
Travelers in Dhaka should anticipate and avoid protests over recent controversial remarks made by French President Emmanuel Macron, due to the risk of unrest. The Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) group has reportedly planned demonstrations on October 28 outside the French Embassy and on October 29 at the National Press Club from 3:00 PM local time. The latter event coincides with celebrations of the Muslim prophet Muhammad’s birthday, a widely observed public holiday. This gathering is likely to be particularly well attended and result in significant traffic disruption.
BRUNEI
Travelers in Brunei should anticipate associated disruption until October 30 following the death of Prince Haji ‘Abdul’ Azim, the second son of the Sultan, on October 24. The funeral occurred on the evening of October 24 at the Royal Mausoleum in Bandar Seri Begawan. Authorities have declared a seven-day national mourning period from October 24. During this period, all citizens are required to wear white clothing. Travelers should reconfirm appointments, as business activity is liable to be disrupted during the mourning period.
CAMBODIA
Travelers should continue to anticipate intermittent disruption to travel and essential services during the ongoing monsoon season. Flash flooding has been reported in 20 of the country’s 25 provinces and Phnom Penh. The worsthit provinces include Banteay Meanchey, Battambang, Kampong Thom, Kandal and Pursat provinces, as well as southwestern areas of Phnom Penh. Meanwhile, National Road 4 connecting to Sihanoukville has also been damaged. Further flash floods and landslides are possible, especially in provinces along the Mekong River.
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.
Through October 29, travelers in urban centers should avoid demonstrations over a fatal sexual assault case. The main opposition Indian National Congress and women’s groups have called for nationwide protests on October 26 and 29, respectively. Further details of the gatherings are not available. The demonstrations are related to the alleged sexual assault and subsequent death of a woman in September in Hathras.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should avoid demonstrations over a fatal sexual assault case. The main opposition Indian National Congress and women’s groups have called for nationwide protests on October 29. Further details of the gatherings are not available. The demonstrations are related to the alleged sexual assault and subsequent death of a woman in September in Hathras.
Travelers in Bihar state in the coming weeks should anticipate disruption related to the State Assembly Elections planned between October 28 and November 10. Longstanding political and communal tensions are likely to be exacerbated during this period and may result in unrest. Heightened security, including additional police checkpoints, will likely be implemented around polling stations on October 28 and November 3 and 7. Furthermore, high-profile rallies will be held leading up to and during the elections; such gatherings will likely be well attended and cause significant traffic disruption. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations due to incidental risks posed to bystanders.
INDONESIA
Travelers should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency (BMKG) has forecast that intensified rainfall will impact the entire country through November. Such conditions have resulted in flooding and landslides. These have affected hundreds of people and damaged infrastructure in several areas, including Jakarta. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to avoid all demonstrations over the controversial ‘Omnibus Law’ due to the risk of unrest. Gatherings are planned on October 27 in Bandung and Surabaya. Protests can also be expected in Jakarta and other urban centers on October 28, when the controversial legislation will possibly be signed and finalized. A nationwide protest is planned in Jakarta and 24 other provinces on 2 November in response to the possible signing. Police may forcibly disperse crowds and implement traffic diversions near flashpoints.
IRAQ
The Kurdistan Region Security Council (KRSC) announced the arrests of 17 suspected militants on October 26. The suspects were reportedly planning to carry out attacks against a diplomatic mission, foreign businesses, a local political official, government interests, and a major Western brand; no specific details were released by authorities. The incident highlights the capabilities of the Kurdistan Region (KR) security forces to thwart terror plots, against the latent threat of militancy in the KR.
KAZAKHSTAN
Travelers in Almaty on October 31 should avoid a demonstration from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM local time at Shoqan Ualikhanov Square. Authorities have granted permission to hold the gathering, which is being organized by rights activists to call for political reforms.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to exercise caution, monitor developments, and avoid all gatherings related to forthcoming Parliamentary and Presidential Elections. The Parliament has adopted a bill to delay re-run elections until constitutional reforms are enacted. A State of Emergency in Bishkek has been lifted, as widespread unrest has diminished following the October 15 resignation of former President Sooronbay Jeenbekov (in office 2017-20). Newly-appointed Prime Minister Sadyr Japarov has also assumed the role of Interim President until elections are held.
LAOS
Travelers in southern and central provinces in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Typhoon Molave. The weather system is forecast to make landfall between Da Nang municipality and Phu Yen province in Vietnam on October 28, before moving to southern Laos on the same day. Heavy rainfall and strong winds can be expected across southern and central Laos on October 28-29. Short-notice disruption remains possible at airports in affected areas, including Pakse International Airport (PKZ).
MONGOLIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Mongolia, where restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic remain in force. Border closures and the suspension of international commercial flights have been further extended until at least December 31. While options to depart the country remain limited, special chartered repatriation flights are exempt from restrictions. Arriving passengers must undergo 21-day quarantine at a government-designated facility. Business activities, public events, and school classes at all levels have resumed.
MYANMAR
Travelers should continue to defer travel to Myanmar amid stringent restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities have extended the suspension of domestic flights until November 15 and international flights until November 30. Repatriation, relief, and cargo flights remain operational.
PAKISTAN
Travelers in urban centers on October 30 should anticipate heightened security and associated disruption during Eid Milad-un-Nabi, the Islamic holiday marking the birth of the prophet Muhammad. Related processions will take place in urban centers across the country, including in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Travelers should avoid all processions as a precaution and carry identification documents to ease passage through likely security checkpoints.
Travelers in urban centers over the coming weeks should continue to avoid protests by the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). The coalition comprises all major opposition parties, including the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. Nationwide protests against Prime Minister Imran Khan’s administration are set to continue until January 2021. Heightened security measures can be expected around protest locations following a recent threat alert issued by authorities warning of potential terrorist attacks in Quetta and Peshawar.
At least eight people were killed, and more than 120 others injured, in an explosion on October 27 in the Dir Colony area of Peshawar. The explosion took place at around 8:30 AM local time at a religious school while students were gathering for a lecture. No group has thus far claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident underscores the persistent terrorism risks in Peshawar. The risks associated with travel to the city remain extreme.
At least three people were killed, and seven were injured, during an explosion on October 25 at the Hazarganji Fruit Market in Quetta. According to authorities, the bomb was concealed in a nearby motorbike. Though no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, Islamist militants are suspected to have carried it out. This follows a recent separatist militant attack on a convoy in Ormara on October 15 which killed at least 14 security forces personnel. These incidents highlight the persistent militancy threat in Balochistan, where non-essential travel is advised against.
Travelers in urban centers on October 30 should anticipate heightened security, gatherings and associated disruption during Eid Milad-un-Nabi, a holiday commemorating the birth of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Religious processions will take place in urban centers across the country, including in Islamabad, Karachi and Lahore. Religious leaders have also called for demonstrations on the day against recent controversial remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron. Travelers should avoid all processions and protests, as well as carry identification documents to ease passage through likely security checkpoints.
PHILIPPINES
Travelers should continue to defer travel to the Philippines amid COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities have extended the General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status until November 30 in the National Capital Region. The GCQ will also remain in place until November 30 in the provinces of Batangas and Lanao del Sur, as well as the cities of Bacolod, Iloilo, Tacloban and Iligan. A modified GCQ will remain in effect for the rest of the country until November 30.
SOUTH KOREA
Health authorities have enhanced monitoring of the seasonal influenza vaccination program. A number of “adverse events,” including some fatalities, have been reported. Investigations so far have shown the deaths are highly likely to be caused by underlying health issues including cancers, liver, lung and heart disease. The local vaccination programs are proceeding. Seasonal flu vaccination is generally recommended for most people. Consult your doctor for an individual recommendation.
SRI LANKA
Authorities have imposed indefinite curfews across Colombo and Batticaloa districts following a surge in COVID-19 cases. Travel to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), serving Colombo, remains permitted for those with scheduled flights. Affected areas in Colombo include the central business district of Fort, as well as Borella, Dam Street, Maligawatta, Pettah, and Welikada. Travelers should closely monitor the situation as further restrictions are possible, including elsewhere in the country.
THAILAND
Travelers in Bangkok on October 28 should avoid pro-government demonstrations due to the potential for local disruption and scuffles. A gathering is ongoing at Wongwian Yai. Gatherings are also planned in front of the Japanese and French embassies in the Lumphini and Bang Rak areas, respectively. Participants will subsequently proceed to the Thai Summit Tower in the Bang Kapi area. Large crowds and attendant security measures are likely to cause traffic congestion. Services at the Wongwian Yai (BTS) and Lumphini Metropolitan Rapid Transit (MRT) stations may be affected.
Travelers in Thailand, particularly those in northern, northeastern, eastern and southern provinces, should anticipate disruption during the passage of Typhoon Molave until at least October 30. The weather system is forecast to make landfall between Da Nang municipality and Phu Yen province on October 28, before crossing over Laos and reaching eastern Thailand the same day. According to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), the storm is expected to bring heavy-to-very-heavy rains and strong winds to areas along its path; however, it is also expected to weaken in intensity as it makes its way further inland from Vietnam.
TONGA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Tonga amid ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. Authorities extended the State of Emergency until at least 8:00 PM local time on November 23. Meanwhile, a nationwide nightly curfew remains in place from 12:01 AM to 5:00 AM. Gatherings are limited to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors.
VIETNAM
Travelers in northern and central provinces should continue to minimize non-essential movement until at least October 29 during the passage of Typhoon Molave. The weather system made landfall near Da Nang municipality on October 28. Two fatalities have been reported, and 26 people are missing in Quang Ngai province. The storm has uprooted trees and caused damages to houses. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) maintains its disaster risk warning at ‘Level Four’ (second-highest on a five-tier scale). Many parts of Vietnam are still recovering from intense flooding that has resulted from continuous rain since early October. Typhoon Molave is expected to exacerbate the existing situation.
EUROPE
BELARUS
Travelers in urban centers should monitor developments and anticipate disruption during a nationwide strike from October 26. The strike was called by the opposition after President Alexander Lukashenko refused to abide by a ‘People’s Ultimatum’ to resign by October 25. At least 100,000 people demonstrated in Minsk on the day. Security forces used stun guns, rubber bullets and water cannon to disperse the protests. Mobile internet connectivity was also limited. Further such disruption can be expected in the coming days. Further gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed by security forces, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
CZECH REPUBLIC
Travelers in Prague over the coming hours should anticipate disruption in the vicinity of Old Town Square and plan routes bypassing it as a precaution. Hundreds of people are gathering to mark the country’s Independence Day. Some intend to protest against the government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions. Similar demonstrations on October 18 resulted in security forces using tear gas to disperse crowds, while several arrests were made.
GEORGIA
Travelers in Tbilisi and major urban centers should monitor developments and avoid gatherings related to the October 31 Parliamentary Elections due to the risk of unrest. Clashes involving rival political supporters and security forces are possible during rallies, posing incidental risks to bystanders. There have also been several violent incidents targeting politicians or political party offices. The broader security environment is unlikely to deteriorate during the election cycle, but local gatherings over the results are likely to occur. Depending on how contentious the results are, such gatherings may become disruptive.
GREECE
Travelers traveling to central and southern regions on October 28 should plan journeys accounting for travel disruption brought on by heavy rainfall, storms, and hail. The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) has issued a red warning (the highest level on a four-tier scale) for the Ionian Islands and the regions of Central Greece, Crete, Evia and Peloponnese. Adverse weather conditions are forecast through the day in these locations, as well as in southern parts of Epirus region, Thessaly region, and the Cyclades and Sporades islands. Afternoon and evening storms are likely in the North Aegean islands and in the regions of Central Macedonia, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace.
ITALY
Essential travel to Italy can continue subject to a strict assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes. On October 7, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte signed a new decree extending an ongoing State of Emergency until at least January 31, 2021. Internally, strict social distancing, testing processes and hygiene guidance remain in effect. Overnight curfews are in place in Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Calabria and Piedmont regions.
Travelers in urban centers should anticipate and avoid further protests over COVID-19-related curfews, due to the risk of local disruption and unrest. On October 28, related rallies will be held in public squares across 18 cities, including Rome, from 11:30 AM local time. Similar gatherings may be held in the interim. Earlier, unruly demonstrations against the restrictions on October 23-26 took place in multiple urban centers, including Rome, Catania, Milan, Naples and Turin. Some participants set objects alight, threw projectiles and clashed with police officers, who responded with tear gas.
POLAND
Travelers in urban centers over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests against a controversial court ruling that tightens abortion legislation, due to the risk of unrest. A major rally is planned in Warsaw on October 30. Earlier on October 27, one person was stabbed during related protests in Poznan, while demonstrators on October 26 blocked roads in Warsaw, Krakow, Szczecin and Wroclaw. Police are liable to forcibly disperse further protests, particularly given an ongoing COVID-19-related ban on gatherings of more than five people.
SLOVENIA
Travelers conducting essential travel in Slovenia should abide by movement restrictions introduced on October 16 by authorities. A temporary ban on travelling beyond the confines of one’s municipality of residence is in place. Authorities introduced a nationwide curfew on October 19, in place from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM local time. They have also restricted gatherings to six people. Travelers should reconfirm region- and city-specific measures. There is a potential for sudden changes in local restrictions and containment measures.
UNITED KINGDOM
Travelers should defer travel to areas classified as very high risk on a three-tier alert system or under lockdown due to stringent COVID-19 restrictions. Lancashire, Liverpool City region, Greater Manchester, and South Yorkshire are at the highest level. Wales has entered a ‘firebreak lockdown’ that will last until November 9. Essential travel to other parts of the UK can proceed following an assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, as well as the potential for sudden changes.
