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.
TROPICAL STORM ZETA
Travelers in Gulf Coast state sover the coming days should continue to defer travel to areas in the path of Tropical Storm Zeta. Travelers in affected areas should abide by official directives pertaining to evacuation orders. Zeta has now weakened after making landfall near the Cocodrie area in Louisiana at around 4:00 PM local time on October 28. The storm’s strength is forecast to diminish further as it moves northeast across parts of southeastern and MidAtlantic states before re-entering the Atlantic Ocean by the evening of October 29. Mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders remain in place in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi states.
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.
COLORADO and WYOMING
Travelers in Colorado and Wyoming states in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to multiple ongoing wildfires. These have prompted the closure of several major roads, as well as mandatory evacuation orders and pre-evacuation notices for multiple counties. Travelers in affected areas should reconfirm the status of routes and follow all official directives.
PENNSYLVANIA
Travelers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania should avoid Logan Square in Center City amid ongoing police investigations. A bomb squad is investigating an abandoned van found loaded with explosives and other hazardous material at the intersection of North 19th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
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.
Travelers in urban centers on October 31 – November 1 should plan journeys bypassing protests against COVID-19- related lockdowns to minimize delays. On October 31, activists in Toronto intend to gather at 12:00 PM local time at Yonge-Dundas Square, while those in Winnipeg will protest at 11:00 AM Local time at the Canadian Human Rights Museum. On November 1, demonstrators in Victoria will rally at 1:00 PM local time at the Ministry of Health. The rallies are expected to pass off peacefully but are likely to cause local traffic disruption.
COLOMBIA
Travelers are advised to defer all travel to Colombia 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 shortage of general hospital and intensive care beds as well as some medical supplies.
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
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.
NORTH & WEST AFRICA
Travelers in North Africa and West Africa, particularly Francophone countries, in the coming days should anticipate protests over remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron. The remarks were made in relation to controversial caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad. Further calls for protest and boycotts of French goods are likely in the coming weeks. These are particularly likely around the prophet’s birthday on October 29 and All Saints’ Day (Toussaint) public holiday on November 1. While the threat of terrorism varies by country, travelers should minimize time around potential militant targets and monitor local sentiments, particularly regarding 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.
Travelers in Abidjan on October 29 should minimize movement in Abobo district during a rally planned in support of President Alassane Ouattara. This has been organized by his ruling Rally of Houphouetists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP) party ahead of the October 31 Presidential Election. Participants will gather from 11:00 AM local time at Rond point Banco-Anador. At 2:00 PM local time, they will walk to the City Council of Abobo and remain there until at least 8:00 PM local time. Although the event is likely to be well-policed, clashes involving participants and opposition supporters are possible, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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.
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.
MOZAMBIQUE
Travelers in Beira should monitor developments related to protests against a reported increase in kidnappings. On October 18, a group of unknown armed assailants opened fire on the son of a local businessman in Beira who reportedly escaped the assault. Following the incident, a group of local businesspeople called for a three-day strike from October 23. Further demonstrations are likely if more incidents of kidnapping occur and if demonstrators perceive that appropriate government action is not being taken. Travelers should monitor developments for related disruption.
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.
NIGER
A US National was kidnapped on October 27 in Birnin Konni village, located around three miles from the border with Nigeria. Reports indicate the individual was living in the area and was abducted from his home at around 1:45 AM local time by six assailants. While kidnappings in southern Niger are rare, this incident highlights the need for precautions against kidnap, even in lower travel risk areas.
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 urban centers in the coming days should exercise heightened caution following continued reports of looting and vandalism. While the demonstrations have largely subsided, incidents of mobs looting governmentowned and private warehouses continue. Curfews have been imposed in 17 states to contain the unrest. Further acts of vandalism could escalate into clashes between security forces and perpetrators; live ammunition is likely to be used.
Travelers traveling via Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in the coming days should reconfirm flights, amid disruption caused by intervention from federal regulators. The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on October 27 closed airline counters at the airport over the non-payment of debts. Local reports indicate this has disrupted flights to various domestic locations, including Lagos and Port Harcourt.
SAMOA
Travelers should defer travel to Samoa amid ongoing restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities have extended an ongoing State of Emergency until at least November 22. International flights also remain suspended until further notice; however, authorities have approved a tentative schedule for repatriation flights from October 30 to December 11 for citizens stranded abroad.
SAUDI ARABIA
Authorities announced on October 28 that six armed drones launched by the Yemen-based Houthi rebel group had been intercepted. These were reportedly targeting civilians and civilian objects. No casualties or damages were reported by authorities. The Saudi Air Defense System remains capable of intercepting most projectiles; however, travelers should exercise caution around potential targets, including government and military interests, energy infrastructure and airports.
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of an individual following the stabbing of a security guard outside the French Consulate in Jeddah at around 8:00 AM local time. The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions over controversial statements made by French President Emmanuel Macron in the wake of the killing of a teacher by an Islamist extremist in France. While there is an underlying risk of terrorism in Saudi Arabia, security forces maintain the capabilities to deter most threats; however, the development highlights the risk of a one-off incident – such as a stabbing or shooting – by radicalized individuals during periods of heightened tension. Travelers should exercise caution and minimize time spent around potential militant targets as a precaution.
SENEGAL
Travelers in Dakar on October 30 should plan journeys bypassing protests organized by civil society organizations to denounce the provisional results of the recent Presidential Election in Guinea. 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.
SOUTH AFRICA
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.
Travelers in Durban should anticipate traffic disruption due to ongoing metro bus protests and roadblocks. The M4 Highway is obstructed in both directions near the Sugar Terminal. The R33 Highway is also closed between Greytown and Pietermaritzburg near the Mizpah Train Station. Travelers should use alternative routes where possible.
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.
TUR KEY
Travelers in Turkey should monitor developments and anticipate possible protests in the coming days after a French satirical magazine published a series of controversial cartoons depicting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The development comes after French President Emmanuel Macron made controversial comments over caricatures of the Muslim prophet Muhammad, which sparked protest in multiple Muslim-majority. Turkish citizens are likely to organize protests against the cartoons and comments, though these are expected to pass off peacefully, but may cause local disruption.
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.
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. No further details have been released. The demonstrations are related to the alleged sexual assault and subsequent death of a woman in September in Hathras.
Travelers in Bihar state should anticipate disruption related to the State Assembly Elections until 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, can be expected around polling stations and related rallies. Demonstrations will likely be well attended and cause significant traffic disruption. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.
Travelers should continue to avoid ongoing protests over new farm laws. Farmers’ groups in Punjab state have eased an ongoing rail blockade to allow goods trains to pass until November 5. The opposition Indian National Congress plans to hold protests on October 31 at party headquarters in all districts and nationwide demonstrations on November 5. In addition, the All India Kisan Sangharsh Co-ordination Committee farmers’ organization plans to hold protests on November 26-27 in New Delhi. Further details are currently not available. Farmers’ groups and opposition parties claim the laws weaken government support for the agricultural sector.
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. Nationwide protests are planned in Jakarta and 24 other provinces on November 2, 9 and 10 in response to President Joko Widodo potentially signing the law. The November 2 protest will concentrate around the Constitutional Court and the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta. Organizers expect hundreds of thousands to attend nationwide. Police may forcibly disperse crowds and implement traffic diversions near flashpoints.
KAZAKHSTAN
Travelers in Almaty on October 31 should avoid a planned demonstration at Shoqan Ualikhanov Square from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM local time due to the credible risk of unrest. Demonstrators are demanding political reforms. The rally is supported by the banned Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DVK) movement and its associated Koshe or ‘Street’ party. Although the gathering has been authorized, security forces may be deployed to flashpoints.
LAOS
Travelers in southern and central provinces until at least October 30 should plan journeys accounting for residual disruption following the passage of former typhoon Molave. The weather system made landfall on October 28 south of Da Nang municipality in Vietnam. It has since weakened into a low pressure system and moved to northeastern Thailand. The adverse weather is likely to continue to affect transport and communications in the worst-affected areas in the south.
NEW CALEDONIA
Travelers in Noumea and other urban centers in South province on October 30 should anticipate disruption during protests linked to a 24-hour general strike over the planned sale of a major nickel plant. The sale is a contentious issue due to potential job losses. Related gatherings are likely to be well attended as the strike is being backed by several organizations, including the influential USTKE trade union. Precedents suggest that protests should remain peaceful and that demonstrators in Noumea may gather around the New Caledonian government complex, the French High Commission and Hotel de la Province Sud.
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 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.
Poor air quality has been recorded in several cities including Islamabad and Lahore. The situation is expected to worsen over the next few days. 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.
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 announced a curfew across Western province from 11:59 PM local time on October 29 until 5:00 AM local time on November 2 following a surge in COVID-19 cases. Only essential movement is permitted during this period. Travel to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), which serves Colombo, is allowed for those with scheduled flights. Indefinite curfews are ongoing in parts of Colombo and Batticaloa districts. Travelers should abide by official directives and closely monitor the situation as further restrictions are possible, including elsewhere in the country.
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. Additionally, a curfew will be imposed across the entire Western province from 11:59 PM local time on October 29 until 5:00 AM on November 2. Travelers should continue to closely monitor the situation as further restrictions are possible, including elsewhere in the country.
THAILAND
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) said that Molave weakened into an active low pressure over northeastern Thailand at 10:00 AM local time on October 29. The weather system is forecast to further weaken in the coming hours; however, the TMD has issued heavy rainfall warnings until October 30 for multiple provinces. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out and plan travel accounting for disruption.
Travelers in Bangkok on October 29 should avoid anti-government demonstrations due to the risk of local disruption. Gatherings are planned in front of the Nation News Network building from 4:00 PM local time, as well as in the vicinity of the Silom Complex and Sala Daeng BTS Station at 4:00 PM local time. Participants will subsequently march to Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Separately, demonstrators will likely gather around MBK Skywalk from 5:30 PM local time to commemorate the dissolution of violent protests at the same location 13 days earlier. Large crowds and heightened security measures are expected to cause traffic congestion in affected areas. Scuffles are possible, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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 November 2 following the passage of former typhoon Molave. The weather system made landfall south of Da Nang municipality on October 28 as a Category 2 typhoon, before weakening as it moved to Laos later on the same day. Molave’s passage triggered landslides in Quang Ngai and Quang Nam provinces that killed at least 50 people. It has also exacerbated the situation in many flood-hit parts of Vietnam amid persistent rainfall since early October. The National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) has lowered its disaster risk warning to ‘Level Three’ (third-highest on a five-tier scale)
EUROPE
BELGIUM
Travelers in Brussels on November 1 should plan journeys bypassing a protest in front of the Guinean Embassy on Boulevard Auguste Reyers. Participants are denouncing the provisional results of Guinea’s Presidential Elections. Spontaneous gatherings are possible ahead of the aforementioned event. A related protest near the Embassy on October 22 was forcibly dispersed by police with a water cannon. Any further such events would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
FRANCE
Travelers in Avignon in the coming hours should expect a heightened security presence in the city center and plan journeys accordingly to minimize inconvenience. A security operation is currently taking place after an armed assailant reportedly attempted to attack passersby with a knife. The assailant was killed by security forces.
Travelers in Nice in the coming hours should continue to avoid the vicinity of the Notre-Dame church. A police operation is ongoing after a fatal stabbing incident. At least three people were killed at around 9:00 AM local time, and several others were injured. The area is now being cordoned off by security forces and a terrorism investigation has been launched. The suspect was quickly apprehended by police and has reportedly been transferred to a hospital due to several gunshot wounds.
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.
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. Many such demonstrations have occurred across the country since October 23. Several have turned violent overnight, most recently in Palermo on October 28, as well as in Milan and Rome on October 27. Gatherings are liable to be forcibly dispersed by police, posing incidental risks to bystanders and causing disruption in their vicinity.
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.
SPAIN
Travelers in Madrid should plan journeys accounting for disruption during environmental protests on November 1-6. The events, organized by the Extinction Rebellion environmental activist group, will likely involve roadblocks and public transport disruption.
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.
