With summer travel season fast approaching, the Government of Canada has issued or updated travel advisories for several top international destinations, warning Canadian travellers to stay informed and vigilant due to heightened risks ranging from petty crime to terrorism and extreme weather.
The updated Travel Advice and Advisories, published on the federal government’s official portal, reflect the most recent global developments and aim to help Canadians make informed and safe travel decisions.
Below are the countries with recent or updated advisories:
Vietnam
Risk Level: High rate of petty crime
Details: Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft are common in crowded tourist areas, on beaches, and public transportation, including sleeper trains. Travellers are also warned about cybercrime via public Wi-Fi networks, where personal and financial information can be compromised.
Brazil
Risk Level: High crime rates and flooding
Details: Armed robberies and so-called “express kidnappings” are increasing in urban areas, including Rio de Janeiro. Following severe rainfall on March 23, widespread flooding and landslides have impacted southeastern states, including São Paulo and Espirito Santo, causing infrastructure damage and casualties.
France
Risk Level: Elevated terrorism threat
Details: On March 24, 2024, France raised its national alert level to “urgence attentat” (attack emergency)—the highest security status—following a deadly terrorist attack in Moscow. Travellers are urged to remain alert in public spaces and follow local security protocols.
Guatemala
Risk Level: Violent crime and civil unrest
Details: Demonstrations, roadblocks, and strikes may disrupt travel following the January 2024 presidential transition. Violent crimes, including armed robbery and carjackings, remain common, especially in Guatemala City. Tourists are seen as high-value targets.
Germany
Risk Level: Ongoing terrorism threat
Details: As with much of Europe, Germany remains under the threat of terrorism, with public spaces, transportation hubs, and tourist sites identified as potential targets. Germany maintains a national alert system, with updates communicated through local media.
Government Reminder to Travellers:
Canadians are advised to consult the Travel Advice and Advisories page at travel.gc.ca before travelling and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service to receive updates and alerts in real time.