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
Throughout December, travelers should continue to anticipate notable disruption to movement and business operations and abide by restrictions related to an ongoing spike in COVID-19 cases in much of the country. Authorities in many states have issued or strengthened existing mandates restricting public gatherings, interstate travel, and mobility. This tightening of restrictions is likely to continue throughout the country. Restrictions in some areas may last through the holiday season into 2021. Travelers should monitor announcements from local authorities.
MARYLAND
Travelers in Baltimore, Maryland in the coming hours should avoid the vicinity of the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company Building near West Fayette Street due an accidental explosion. The incident is suspected to be related to ongoing construction work at the facility. Official sources report that at least ten people have been injured. Emergency services are currently attending the scene.
OREGON, WASHINGTON
Travelers in western areas of Oregon and Washington states over the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by adverse weather. Heavy rain, landslides, and floods on December 20-21 resulted in intermittent road and highway closures in Clackamas and Multnomah counties in Oregon. Local flooding and traffic disruption was also reported in central areas of Seattle, Washington)on December 21. Travelers should exercise caution and ensure routes are clear prior to setting out.
TENNESSEE
Through January 1, travelers in Nashville, TN should continue to anticipate disruption and avoid the vicinity of 166 North 2nd Avenue, where a recreational vehicle (RV) exploded at around 6:30 AM local time on December 25. At least three people were injured and multiple buildings damaged. Parts of the downtown area are under curfew through 12:00 PM local time on December 28. These include the James Robertson Parkway, 4th Avenue North, Broadway, and the Cumberland River. The explosion disrupted telecommunications in the region, temporarily affecting 911 services and operations at Nashville International Airport (BNA). While the airport has since resumed operations, mobile services remain disrupted in some areas.
WINTER STORM AFFECT THE SOUTHWEST, MOUNTAINS & MIDWEST
Through December 30, travelers in the Southwest, Mountains and Midwest regions should anticipate disruption and exercise caution during the passage of a winter storm. The National Weather Service has issued multiple advisories, including flooding and winter storm alerts, for parts of California, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, South Dakota and Utah. Heavy rainfall, snow, freezing rain and strong winds are expected to impact the affected areas, with the most severe weather taking place in the Midwest on December 29. Travelers should maintain flexible itineraries as intermittent short-notice flight, transportation, and road disruption is possible during this period.
US & CANADA
Authorities have extended the closure of the US-Canada border to non-essential travel (i.e., for recreation and tourism purposes) until January 21, 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cross-border freight movement is still permitted. Travelers should defer all travel to Canada, unless coming directly from the US for essential purposes or otherwise exempted from COVID-19-related restrictions. Travelers should defer non-essential travel to the US, where COVID-19 restrictions remain in effect.
ARGENTINA
On December 28-29, travelers in Buenos Aires should anticipate disruption during pro-abortion and pro-life demonstrations. On December 28, pro-life supporters will march at 6:00 PM local time from Plaza de Mayo to the National Congress building. On December 29, pro-abortion groups will gather outside the National Congress building at 2:00 PM local time. In recent days, demonstrations have occurred nationwide, including in Mendoza and Salta. While the events are expected to pass off peacefully, the rallies are likely to cause local disruption.
ECUADOR
Throughout December, travelers in Guayaquil should anticipate heightened security amid an ongoing police operation to combat a recent increase in violent crime. 500 police officers have been deployed to the city to focus on crimes associated with drug trafficking and territory control. Authorities are also considering deploying the National Guard. Travelers should monitor developments and abide by all official directives. Police operations can develop into confrontations with criminal groups, which would pose incidental risks to bystanders.
HAITI
Throughout December, travelers in Haiti, particularly Port-au-Prince, should anticipate disruption and avoid demonstrations associated with upcoming Presidential, Legislative, and Local Elections to be held in January. While President Jovenel Moise confirmed that elections will take place in January, a specific date has not been announced. Opposition elements in the country have denounced the notion of holding elections while Moise remains in power. The protracted political crisis has caused many unruly demonstrations, which are likely to continue in the lead-up to and in the aftermath of the elections.
Throughout December, travelers in Port-au-Prince and nearby areas should exercise caution and minimize nonessential movement amid heightened police operations targeting criminal gangs in the city’s south. Several police operations have recently occurred in the Bicentennaire neighborhood, near the southern entrance to the city. On December 16, a police raid reportedly involved members of the armed forces. Previous such operations have resulted in prolonged shootouts, posing significant incidental risk to bystanders. Authorities have indicated the operations will persist in the short-term.
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 and damage linked to the recent passage of weather systems, including tropical storms Eta and Iota, has prompted the closure of the airport until at least December 31. Local reports suggest the closure may persist into January-February 2021. All scheduled flights are being rerouted to other Honduran airports.
MEXICO
A fatal shoot-out on December 20 in Salvatierra underscores the high risk of violent crime in the state and highlights the need to avoid non-essential journeys. Five people were killed and two others were injured outside a food establishment when unidentified assailants opened fire. Authorities have yet to identify the suspects or the motive.
PERU
On December 29, travelers in Lima should avoid an anti-government protest at Plaza Acho and anticipate associated disruption. Organizers are calling for President Francisco Sagasti to step down if his administration fails to execute a recently passed law involving pension returns by December 29. Previous related protests have notably degenerated into clashes between demonstrators and police, with the latter using forcible measures such as tear gas to disperse crowds. Demonstrators have also blocked roads during past gatherings. While the exact details of the upcoming protest have not been announced, the event is expected to be well attended.
VENEZUELA
Travelers in Venezuela over the coming weeks should continue to anticipate and avoid demonstrations linked to the recent National Assembly (Parliament) elections, due to the risk of unrest. President Nicolas Maduro’s United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) won a large majority in the December 6 polls, which were boycotted by the main opposition parties. Opposition activists have called for a national day of protest on December 12. Demonstrations carry a significant risk of unrest, including potential clashes between participants and security forces and/or progovernment paramilitaries. In-country travelers should exercise caution and minimize movement during such events.
AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
ALGERIA
Travelers in Jijel in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by heavy rainfall and flooding. Heavy rain on December 20-21 resulted in extensive flooding and infrastructure damage, including to homes, electrical poles and roadways, in several parts of the city. Multiple vehicles were reportedly washed away by floodwaters, and residents in certain neighborhoods required evacuation, though no one was injured. Severe flooding and associated traffic disruption have also been reported on the N43 Motorway, along which a bridge in the western area of the city has partially collapsed. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes and transport before setting out.
BOTSWANA
Travelers in Botswana should continue to abide by official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. From December 24, a nationwide nightly curfew between 7:00 PM and 4:00 AM local time will come into effect until January 3, 2021. All movement is prohibited during curfew hours. Meanwhile, a State of Emergency will remain in place until at least March.
CHAD
Throughout December, travelers in Kabbia Department should abide by a local curfew following recent communal violence. Dozens were killed on November 23-25 in fighting between farmers and semi-nomadic cattle herders. Although a reconciliation ceremony took place on December 1, local authorities have extended the 7:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time curfew through December 15.
ETHIOPIA
Travelers in Benishangul-Gumuz state in the coming weeks should exercise caution and monitor developments following fresh attacks on civilians by unidentified gunmen. Such attacks have increased across the state’s Metekel zone in recent months. The latest incident occurred on December 23, when gunmen killed over 90 people and injured at least 36 others in Metekel’s Bulen woreda. A number of houses were also set alight during the attack. Although violence mainly targets local populations, foreign travelers in the state may face incidental risks. Strong local support networks and good journey management procedures are recommended.
GUINEA
Yellow fever is a potentially severe viral illness spread via mosquito bites. It can be prevented through vaccination and by avoiding mosquito bites. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry for anyone 9 months of age or older arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Vaccination is recommended for all travelers 9 months of age or older going to Guinea.
IRAQ
On December 28, travelers in Qadisiyah governorate should reconfirm the feasibility of movement following reports of an explosion near Diwaniyah. The explosion reportedly targeted a logistical convoy supporting international forces travelling along a highway. The exact location of the blast is unclear at this time. No casualties or significant damage have been reported.
Travelers due to travel to or from Iraq in the coming weeks should reconfirm their itineraries and monitor developments after authorities banned all flights to and from Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Iran, Japan, South Africa, the Netherlands, and the UK. All non-Iraqi citizens traveling from these countries will be barred entry to Iraq, while any Iraqi citizens returning from them will be required to quarantine upon arrival for a period of 14 days. All land borders will additionally be closed from December 24 until at least January 7, 2021.
ISRAEL
Through January 1, travelers should anticipate further protests by right-wing groups and avoid them as a precaution. On December 26, around 1,000 participants gathered outside the Police National Headquarters to demonstrate against the death of a settler during a police operation. They subsequently clashed with security forces who responded with the use of water cannons. More than 20 protesters were arrested while several bystanders and 11 policemen were injured. Future protests may turn violent, leading to a heavy-handed response by security forces.
In the coming weeks, travelers should anticipate and avoid further protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the government’s COVID-19 response. Well-attended gatherings are occurring primarily on Saturdays along major roads, squares and bridges, as well as around Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem’s Rehavia neighborhood. Recent gatherings attracted additional participants after the Knesset was dissolved on December 23, when the deadline for a new budget law passed without an agreement. Scuffles between rival protesters and police have been reported. Further such episodes could pose incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers due to travel to Israel in the coming weeks should reconfirm their itineraries following the announcement of new restrictions in response to recent developments involving COVID-19. Effective from 2:00 PM local time on December 23, all foreign nationals will be barred from entering the country, except under special circumstances. This measure will remain in effect until at least January 6, 2021. In addition, all Israeli nationals returning from abroad will be required to quarantine at a government-designated hotel for 14 days; however, this period can be shortened to ten days with the presentation of two negative COVID-19 test results obtained during isolation.
KUWAIT
Travelers should monitor development and reconfirm their itineraries in light of the announcement on December 21 of new entry restrictions by authorities. All entry through air, land and sea borders will be suspended from 11:00 PM local time December 21 until January 1, 2021 due to recent development involving COVID-19. Passengers arriving before the suspension should follow all official directives.
LEBANON
On December 29, travelers in Beirut should avoid a planned student protest due to the risk of local unrest. The event, being organized by American University of Beirut (AUB) students against a hike in tuition fees, will start at 11:00 AM local time near the AUB Main Gate. A related protest on December 19 led to clashes with security forces, while some demonstrators vandalized banks and blocked roads in the area. Travelers should avoid all gatherings to minimize exposure to incidental risks.
MALAWI
Travelers should defer non-essential travel to Malawi following newly-announced travel restrictions. Although flights are operational with specific requirements, land borders will remain closed for at least two weeks, except for the passage of essential goods, deportees or those with special circumstances. Malawian citizens and residents can exit and return to the country provided they present a negative COVID-19 test result.
Through December 30, travelers in southern Malawi should exercise caution and plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Chalane. The weather system is currently located in the southwestern Indian Ocean, north of Madagascar. According to the Malawi Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services, the storm is forecast to make landfall in Mozambique on December 30 before traveling into southern Malawi the same day. Although Chalane is expected to affect mainly the southern provinces of Malawi, the central and lakeshore provinces may also experience strong winds and heavy rainfall.
MOZAMBIQUE
Through December 30, travelers should exercise caution and plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Tropical Storm Chalane. The weather system is currently located in the southwestern Indian Ocean, north of Madagascar. According to the Mozambique National Institute for Meteorology (INAM), the storm is forecast to strengthen and move towards central Mozambique on December 29-30, possibly affecting Nampula, Sofala and Zambezia provinces.
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.
Travelers in Lagos should expect significant travel disruption during the maintenance of the Third Mainland Bridge December 26-28 and plan journeys accordingly. Authorities will close the bridge for all traffic at 12:00 AM local time on December 26 and will reopen it at 11:59 AM on December 28. Following the 72-hour maintenance, authorities will reopen the bridge to partial traffic amid ongoing repair works.
SAUDI ARABIA
Through January 4, travelers should continue to reconfirm essential itineraries following authorities’ extension of a ban on international commercial flights. Suspension of entry through land and sea borders has also been extended for another week. All these measures may be extended further. On December 27, authorities confirmed that in-country foreign nationals are permitted to depart via special commercial and charter flights.
SOMALIA
Travelers in Somalia should monitor developments following an announcement on December 3 by President Donald Trump that US troops would withdraw from Somalia by January 15, 2021. The 700 US military personnel stationed in Somalia will be redeployed to neighboring countries. The announcement comes ahead of Somalia’s upcoming Parliamentary and Presidential elections tentatively set for December 2020 and February 2021 respectively. Incountry travelers should exercise caution amid the possibility of an uptick in attacks by the Islamist extremist movement al-Shabab, particularly around election-related events.
TUNISIA
Throughout December, travelers in Douz and Beni Khedache should expect heightened security and observe an ongoing curfew. On December 14, authorities imposed a night curfew from 4:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time until further notice. The decision followed clashes on December 12-13 in the town of Ain Skhouna over a land dispute. One person was killed, and several were injured in the violence.
UGANDA
Through January 1, travelers should avoid all gatherings over the death of Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi’s bodyguard on December 27. A related overnight vigil was held at Kyagulanyi’s National Unity Platform (NUP) office in Kampala’s Kamwokya district. Gatherings are possible around the office on December 28, when the bodyguard’s funeral will take place. Police are likely to forcibly disperse protests, as seen on December 27, when they fired tear gas at supporters of Kyagulanyi who had gathered in Masaka. Several people, including two journalists, were injured.
Throughout December, travelers across Uganda, particularly Central and Western regions, should continue to avoid all electoral campaign rallies due to the risk of unrest. President Yoweri Museveni began his Presidential campaign in the Western region on December 7, starting from the city of Mbarara. The rallies were well attended and a heightened security forces presence was reported in surrounding areas. Travelers should continue to monitor developments and avoid related gatherings due to the credible risk of unrest.
ZAMBIA
Travelers in Lusaka over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests by supporters of opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema, due to the risk of unrest. Two people on December 23 were reportedly killed during clashes between pro-Hichilema demonstrators and security forces near police headquarters on Independence Avenue. The protests occurred after Hichilema was summoned to the building for an interview, a development the opposition leader claims was politically motivated. Reports indicate that the officers used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse the demonstrators.
ZIMBABWE
Through January 1, travelers in eastern Zimbabwe should exercise caution and plan journeys accounting for disruption during the passage of Tropical Cyclone Chalane. The weather system is currently located in central Madagascar. According to the Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department, the storm is forecast to move through central Mozambique before reaching Zimbabwe on December 30-31, possibly affecting Masvingo, Manicaland, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland West provinces.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
AFGHANISTAN
The head of the non-governmental Free and Fair Election Forum of Afghanistan organization was killed when his car was attacked by gunmen in Police District 7 of Kabul on December 23. Separately, one police officer was killed, and two others injured, when an explosion targeted a police vehicle in the city. No group has yet claimed responsibility. The incidents highlight the persistent risk of militancy, Afghanistan’s extreme travel risks, and the need for dedicated security support when undertaking any movement.
AUSTRALIA
Through February, travelers should account for Fire Danger Warnings related to ongoing bushfires and follow all official directives. A Complete Fire Ban has been lifted from the affected areas in Queensland. Nonetheless, travelers should continue to maintain flexible itineraries and be prepared to defer or change travel plans, due to Fire Bans that may be imposed at short notice.
Travelers in New South Wales should continue to abide by official directives following the extension of COVID-19- related restrictions. Authorities have extended Stay-at-Home orders for the southern and northern zones of the Northern Beaches through January 2 and January 9 respectively, allowing only essential movement. The general public is not allowed to enter or exit the affected areas during this period. Restrictions for gatherings will be eased slightly for the New Year period (December 31-January 1), but movement between zones will still be banned.
BANGLADESH
Travelers on December 30 should avoid planned protests by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party as a precaution and to minimize delays. Demonstrations to demand the cancellation of the 2018 General Elections will be held at 11:00 AM local time at district and metropolitan levels across the country. In Dhaka, a rally is scheduled at National Press Club. Scuffles between demonstrators and police can occur if the former attempt to break the security cordons. There is also a likelihood of counter-rallies by supporters of the ruling Awami League, which could result in clashes. Such unrest poses incidental risk to bystanders. Other flashpoints include Chittagong Press Club and Alangkar Circle in Chittagong, as well as Aswini Kumar Hall in Barisal City.
CHINA
Human cases of H5N6 bird flu have been reported in multiple provinces. Bird flu can cause a mild to severe respiratory illness which may be fatal. Most people who have been infected have had direct exposure to birds. There is no suggestion of an outbreak of human to human spread. The risk of infection in the general population appears to be low. Travelers should prevent infection by paying attention to hygiene and avoiding contact with birds and their environment.
Non-essential travel to areas that have been officially designated as “medium” risk (second highest on a three-tier scale) owing to COVID-19-related restrictions should be deferred. These areas include certain locations in Beijing, as well in as Dalian, Shenyang, Chengdu, and Mudanjiang cities. Travelers should confirm any remaining requirements at original locations and destinations when planning travel to and from other areas of aforementioned places.
Travelers in China, particularly northern, western and central areas, should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption during the ongoing winter season, which will last until March. Heavy snow, dense fog, and poor visibility may affect flight and train schedules at short notice, as well as impede road movement. Meanwhile, heavy smog, typically caused by pollution from increased coal use in winter, can result in poor visibility and related flight disruption. Adverse weather conditions can also interrupt power supply, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas
FIJI
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Fiji following the suspension of inbound passenger flights from December 24-28. The move follows recent developments involving COVID-19 in the UK. Multiple repatriation flights to Fiji are allowed to proceed up to December 24; however, any traveler aboard flights from the UK, as well as those deemed to be contacts of UK-based travelers, will be quarantined separately upon arrival.
HONG KONG
Travelers in Hong Kong should continue to monitor developments amid rigorous police enforcement of the National Security Law (NSL) and against illegal assembly. Underlying tensions may drive small-scale gatherings organized by activist groups, which should be avoided as a precaution. There is also potential for hardline protesters to employ violent tactics. While protests have decreased in both frequency and attendance over the past few months, shortnotice gatherings remain likely, especially on key dates and public holidays.
INDIA
Through December 30, travelers in urban centers should continue to expect significant disruption amid ongoing farmers’ protests over new agriculture laws. Farmers’ groups will engage in talks with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government at 11:00 AM local time on December 29; however, they have announced plans to stage a tractor rally on the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal Highway on December 30. Protests are continuing in several border areas of Delhi-National Capital Territory (NCR) alongside imposed traffic diversions.
Travelers should anticipate travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season which will last until February. Dense fog and poor visibility can cause significant disruption to flights, train services, and road journeys. Northern and eastern states such as Asom, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, as well as the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Chandigarh, and Delhi, typically experience the worst of the adverse winter conditions. Major cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad and Chennai, may also be affected.
INDONESIA
Through January 1, travelers should monitor developments over the ongoing detention of the leader of the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) organization, Muhammad Rizieq Shihab. On December 23, a low-level explosion occurred in front of the Save Indonesia Coalition (KAMI) office in Jakarta’s upscale Menteng area. While there have been no reports of casualties and no group has claimed responsibility, KAMI has been known to be critical towards the government and supportive of the FPI. Although the explosion is likely to be a one-off event, travelers should remain vigilant to suspicious persons or activity in public areas.
Travelers in Indonesia, including Jakarta, should continue to plan journeys accounting for disruption during the ongoing monsoon season. The rainy season is expected to last until April 2021 across much of Indonesia and is expected to peak in January-February. Flooding and landslides after prolonged heavy rain have affected parts of Aceh, Banten and North Sumatra provinces since mid-November. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys with local contacts before setting out.
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to Indonesia and abide by official directives following the imposition of further COVID-19-related restrictions for the holiday period until January 8, 2021. Under new measures, foreigners arriving from the UK are barred from entry. Indonesians arriving from the UK, as well as foreigners and Indonesians arriving from Europe and Australia, must obtain a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result within 48 hours before departure. All other approved international travelers must obtain a negative PCR test result within 72 hours before departure.
KAZAKHSTAN
Through December 31, travelers should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption due to adverse weather conditions, including heavy snowfall, fog and strong winds. The Kazakh Meteorological Center has forecast poor weather through December 31. The agency has issued storm alerts for Nur-Sultan, as well as for the provinces of Akmola, Aktobe, Atyrau, Kostanay, Kyzylorda, Mangystau, North Kazakhstan, Turkistan, West Kazakhstan and Zhambyl. Adverse weather conditions may also prompt short-notice road closures and disruption to public utility and emergency response services. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes before setting out.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelers in Kyrgyzstan in the coming weeks should avoid all political gatherings related to the Presidential Election and the Constitutional Referendum, which will be held on January 10, due to the credible risk of unrest. Opposition protests against the proposed constitutional amendments in Bishkek have been relatively small and have thus far passed off peacefully; however, the risk of local clashes at election-related gatherings between rival political party supporters or with security forces remains credible. Travelers should closely monitor developments to remain appraised of any planned gatherings related to the polls.
MALAYSIA
Travelers in Malaysia should continue to anticipate intermittent travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the monsoon season, which usually lasts until March. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and related landslides are expected nationwide during this period. Most-affected areas include Johor, Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu states on Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak state on Borneo Island. While flooding and associated disruption can be more protracted in rural areas, urban centers such as Kuala Lumpur are not immune. Travelers should reconfirm the feasibility of journeys before setting out.
NEPAL
Through December 29, travelers should continue to avoid demonstrations linked to the December 20 dissolution of Parliament due to the potential for unrest. A faction of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP), led by former Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, will organize daily protests in Kathmandu. The NCP faction will also stage demonstrations in all 77 districts on December 29. In addition, the opposition Nepali Congress (NC) party will hold nationwide protests on December 28. Details of the gatherings have not been announced.
NEW CALEDONIA
Travelers should continue to defer all travel to New Caledonia following the suspension of all international commercial flights to and from the country until further notice. Effective December 10, authorities have suspended all international commercial flights amid ongoing unrest in the country.
NEW ZEALAND
Through February 1, passengers transiting Kapiti Coast Airport (PPQ), which serves Paraparaumu, should monitor developments and continue to reconfirm the status of flights despite the resumption of operations at the facility. The airport will operate at reduced hours until February 1 due to staff shortages. Details are unavailable, but operating hours may depend on the availability of specialist staff. Further intermittent closures are possible. The airport was closed on December 13 following security threats posted on social media.
PAKISTAN
On December 28, travelers in Karachi should plan journeys bypassing a demonstration at 3:00 PM local time in front of the Governor’s house. The Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) party and student groups are protesting discrepancies in the 2020 Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT), conducted by the Pakistan Medical Commission. There is potential for local clashes between protesters and police, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Pakistan in the coming weeks should continue to monitor developments and avoid demonstrations organized by the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) due to the risk of unrest. The PDM have announced 11 rallies across smaller cities in their second campaign to demand the ouster of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf government by January 31, 2021. The protests are scheduled to run until January 27, 2021 and are likely to be well attended as well as monitored by additional security force personnel. Traffic disruption and local scuffles between protesters and security forces may occur during the demonstrations.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Throughout December, travelers should continue to monitor developments after Parliamentary developments on December 16. Earlier, 18 opposition ministers gave the incumbent government a majority in Parliament. The opposition has withdrawn its no-confidence motion against Prime Minister James Marape and the government passed its 2021 budget. Parliament has since been adjourned until April 2021. While demonstrations in support of either the government or the opposition have not yet been announced, short-notice gatherings remain possible. Flashpoints include the Morauta House, as well as Parliament House and Government House.
SOUTH KOREA
Travelers in South Korea should anticipate intermittent travel disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing winter season, which will last until February. Heavy snow can cause short-notice disruption to air and overland travel. Adverse weather can also cause damage to buildings or disrupt the supply of essential services such as electricity. Northern and mountainous regions, such as Gangwon province, as well as smaller cities and rural locations are the most vulnerable.
THAILAND
Over 1,300 people who have links to the Mahachai seafood market in Samut Sakhorn have tested positive for COVID-19. Cases have further been traced to over 30 provinces, including Bangkok. Travelers should follow all official directives, limit face-to-face interactions with other people as much as possible, pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face, wear a mask whenever required to, and consider wearing a mask whenever in public.
TURKEY
Travelers on essential travel to Turkey should continue to monitor developments following the announcement on December 20 on inbound flights from certain countries. While inbound travel from most countries is unaffected, authorities have temporarily suspended all flights from Denmark, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the UK until further notice. Flights already en route are allowed to land, though arriving passengers will be subjected to COVID19 tests and an unspecified period of quarantine. Incoming travelers from these countries should reconfirm their itineraries, and those arriving in Turkey should follow all official directives.
UZBEKISTAN
Travelers in or traveling to Tashkent over the coming weeks should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to temporary road closures in the city’s central district during the holiday season. The measure is intended to facilitate a series of scheduled holiday events, including New Year’s Eve celebrations, and will remain in force until 12:00 AM local time on January 15, 2021. Significant traffic delays can be expected along alternative routes as motorists follow diversions. Some public transport services will also be affected within the central district. Travelers should anticipate heightened security, follow official directives, and allow additional time for travel.
Travelers should reconfirm their itineraries after authorities banned flights to/from Austria, Australia, Denmark, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, South Africa and the UK until at least January 10, 2021. Nationals of the aforementioned countries and those who have been to these countries in the last 14 days are also barred from entering or transiting through Uzbekistan. Uzbek citizens arriving from these countries will have to undergo 14 days of quarantine.
VIETNAM
Throughout December, travelers in central and southern provinces should plan journeys accounting for disruption in areas affected by heavy rains and flooding. Persistent heavy rains since November 28 have flooded several areas in Khanh Hoa province. Authorities in Nha Trang evacuated around 2,400 people from residential zones due to flooding in low-lying areas. Disruption to road and rail services was also reported in Nha Trang and adjoining regions. The Khanh Le Pass and Nha Trang Railway Station remain blocked due to flooding. There have been four confirmed deaths in the province’s Van Ninh district.
EUROPE
Throughout December, travelers in Armenia and Azerbaijan should continue to monitor developments following the signing of a peace agreement related to the conflict in the disputed territory of Nagorno-Karabakh. The agreement was signed overnight on November 9-10 by Armenia’s Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin; however, a ceasefire violation was reported in Nagorno-Karabakh on December 11. Both sides have traded accusations of violating the ceasefire. Additionally, protests calling for the resignation of Pashinyan have been ongoing in Yerevan following the announcement of the peace agreement. Travelers should monitor developments and avoid any related gatherings.
ARMENIA
In the coming weeks, travelers in urban centers should expect and avoid further anti-government gatherings due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrations have been taking place to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, following a November deal to end fighting with Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. An indefinite nationwide civil disobedience campaign, initiated on December 22 by the opposition, has attracted momentum in major urban centers. Rallies in Yerevan are centered on Republic Square, where main government buildings are located. While most related gatherings have passed off peacefully, security forces have occasionally used heavyhanded tactics against demonstrators. Travelers should continue to closely monitor developments.
BELARUS
Travelers should continue to exercise caution and avoid all protests calling for fresh elections, the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko, and the release of political prisoners. Large-scale protests continue each Sunday in Minsk, with smaller gatherings in other urban centers. Security forces continue to disperse such events and make indiscriminate arrests. At least 100 people were detained during the latest protest on December 20.
FRANCE
Throughout December, travelers should continue to anticipate and avoid further protests over controversial national security legislation due to the risk of local unrest. The largest demonstrations are likely to be held on Saturdays, but sporadic gatherings will also take place on other days. Most recently, 19 separate rallies occurred in urban centers across the country on December 11-12. Most such events cause limited disruption and pass off without major incident; however, precedents indicate that clashes between security forces and protesters, including far-left elements, are more likely to occur in major urban centers, particularly Paris.
GERMANY
Through December 28, travelers in Saxony should abide by official directives following the imposition of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ten out of 13 counties in the state so far have recorded more than 200 new infections per 100,000 inhabitants per week. In these counties, residents are only allowed to leave their accommodation for essential purposes.
GREECE
Through January 7, travelers in Greece should continue to abide by COVID-19-related restrictions. The nationwide lockdown has been extended through January 7. Non-essential businesses, including restaurants, bars and sports venues, will remain closed during this period. Non-essential movement between regions is prohibited. A curfew remains in place from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time. Beginning December 18, international travelers arriving in the country will have to self-quarantine for ten days.
NETHERLANDS
Beginning December 29, travelers should abide by all official directives following the imposition of new COVID-19 testing rules for inbound travelers. Those arriving from a high-risk area by plane (including transiting passengers), ferry, train or coach must present a negative PCR test not older than 72 hours. For travel within the Schengen Area, this only applies to journeys further than 18 miles into Dutch territory.
RUSSIA
On December 31-January 1, travelers in Moscow should anticipate disruption caused by scheduled road closures and plan journeys accordingly. Numerous roads near the Kremlin and Red Square area will be closed on these days. The closures will be in force from 7:00 AM local time on December 31 through 5:00 AM local time on January 1 due to New Year’s Eve-related celebrations.
In the coming weeks, travelers in Khabarovsk should continue to avoid unauthorized protests over the arrest of former Regional Governor Sergey Furgal, in connection with business-related murders in the early 2000s. Weekly protests have been taking place on Saturdays at 12:00 PM local time since July. Although protests have been largely peaceful, police have detained protesters on several occasions, most recently on December 26, when local reports indicate several activists were detained. Police have also used batons to disperse previous gatherings. A heightened police presence should be anticipated around further protests due to the potential for local unrest.
SPAIN
Travelers in Spain should abide by official directives and monitor developments following the announcement of new restrictions from December 23 until January 6, 2021, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The Spanish government has advised all autonomous communities, except the Canary and Balearic islands, to implement stringent entry and exit restrictions during the holiday period. Exemptions will only apply to Spanish citizens visiting family members and close friends, or those traveling for essential reasons.
SWITZERLAND
Through December 28, travelers should plan journeys accounting for disruption due to heavy snowfall and strong winds. A Level Four (fourth-highest on a five-tier scale) Wind Warning is in place for the regions of Liechesnstein, Werdenberg, Appenzell, Erstfeld-Engelberg, Flulen-Unterschachen, and Glarus Sud-Sernftal. Level Three (thirdhighest on a five-tier scale) Snow and Wind Warnings are in effect for most of the central and southern cantons. Heavy snowfall and high winds may disrupt road and rail transportation, as well as power supply, in affected areas.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Ukraine ahead of and during the holiday period between December 25 and January 8 should anticipate disruption to travel and business activity. Authorities have declared December 25 and January 1, 7 and 8 as public holidays. Many businesses, banks, and governmental offices will be closed or operate with reduced hours. In Kyiv, a festive pedestrian route will start at Sofiyivska Square and pass Friendship of Nations Arch and Andriivs’kyi descent before ending at Kontraktova Square. Travelers should anticipate heightened security around celebration venues, as well as Eastern Catholic and Orthodox churches in major urban centers and abide by COVID-19-related restrictions.
Travelers in Kirovograd province in the coming days should anticipate travel disruption and avoid all demonstrations by miners over allegations of unresolved payments. Miners across the province demonstrated on December 21 and 22 by erecting roadblocks connecting Kropyvnytskyi with Kyiv, Mykolaiv, and Kryvyi Rih. Despite authorities stating that the unresolved payments would be transferred on December 22-24, miners announced their intention to demonstrate until all payments are made. Further roadblocks should be expected. Police may use tough measures to disperse crowds.
UNITED KINGDOM
From December 24 through January 3, travelers planning rail travel to or from London should account for disruption at Kings Cross Station due to maintenance work. 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 December 24, as well as December 31 through January 3.
On December 31, travelers in London should plan journeys bypassing a protest organized by the Save Our Rights activist group as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience. Demonstrators will gather at 9:00 PM local time along the Embankment to denounce perceived civil rights infringements under ongoing COVID-19-related restrictions. Local scuffles between activists and police have been reported during previous associated demonstrations, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in the UK should monitor developments and abide by all government guidelines related to the country’s withdrawal from the EU. Following the end of the transition period on December 31, new entry and exit restrictions will come into effect from January 1, 2021. These changes are expected to increase border-crossing delays due to stricter document-checking procedures and will impact the requirements of EU citizens relocating in the UK. Travelers in the EU should remain apprised of wider policy adjustments, including changes to mobile phone services and travel insurance policies, as well as access to the National Health Service (NHS).
New travel restrictions and lockdown measures have been put in place following the rapid spread and discovery of a new strain of the coronavirus, which is thought to be more than 70% more infectious. The new variant of COVID-19 originates in southeast England and has been identified in Denmark, the Netherlands and in Australia according to the World Health Organization.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson on December 19 announced new COVID-19-related restrictions. Tier 4 (‘Stay At Home’; highest level of a four-tier system), under which travel is only allowed for essential purposes such as work, now includes all of London and several parts of southeastern and eastern England. Meanwhile, local authorities have placed all of Wales under lockdown, while a similar measure will begin in Scotland on December 26. Travel between Scotland and the rest of the UK is currently prohibited. Restrictions are subject to frequent change. Travelers should abide by official directives.
Travelers due to travel to and from the UK in the coming days should reconfirm itineraries after multiple countries announced new travel restrictions in the wake of recent developments involving COVID-19. Countries throughout the EU, as well as additional countries around the world, have banned flights to and from the UK temporarily, with more countries considering implementing such measures. Eurostar has suspended all trains between London, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
- Argentina: Flights from the UK to Buenos Aires have been cancelled as of December 21.
- Austria: Air travel to and from the UK is prohibited.
- Belgium: Only Belgium residents arriving from the UK by train or flight will be allowed entry until December 31. on-residents can enter from January 1, provided they supply evidence of a negative Covid-19 test taken no more than 48 hours prior to their arrival.
- Bulgaria: Flights to and from the UK are suspended through January 31, 2021. Travelers from the UK are required to partake in a 10-day quarantine upon arrival.
- Canada: Most air travel from the UK has been banned, effective 12:00 AM local time on December 21 until at least December 24.
- Chile: All flights to and from the UK will be suspended as of December 22. Travelers who have been in the UK in the last 14 days are required to self-quarantine.
- Colombia: All flights to and from the UK are suspended as of December 21. Upon entering Colombia, travelers who have been in the UK in the last 14 days will be required to self-quarantine.
- Czech Republic: All flights from the UK were halted as of 6 AM ET on December 21.
- Denmark: Flights from the UK are banned until at least December 23.
- Dominican Republic: All flights between the island the UK are cancelled through January 10. All other operations such as emergency flights, cargo and airmail will not be affected by the mandate.
- Ecuador: Travelers arriving from the UK, Australia, South Africa and the EU need to show negative PCR test results taken 10 days prior to arriving in the country. They must also take an antibody test that will be provided at international airports and isolate for five days on arrival. Non-residents must isolate in hotels chosen by the local authorities.
- El Salvador: All travelers entering the country from South Africa or the UK are banned.
- Estonia: Flights from the UK are banned until January 1, 2021.
- France: All travel to and from the UK is suspended through December 23 at 12:00 AM local time. The Port of Dover and Eurotunnel are closed.
- Germany: Flights to and from the UK and South Africa are suspended effective December 20.
- Greece: Travelers arriving from the UK must present a negative PRC test conducted within the last 72 hours, will be subject to a 7-day quarantine, and be tested upon arrival. If the result of the test upon arrival, travelers will still be required to quarantine for 7 days, if the result is positive, travelers will be quarantined for a period advised by authorities.
- Grenada: All flights to and from the UK are suspended until further notice. Anyone who has been in the UK within the past 14 days will not be allowed entry into the country.
- Guatemala: Travelers from the UK are prohibited from entering the country. Further restrictions will be announced December 23.
- Hong Kong: Flights cancelled as of 12:00 AM local time on December 21. Travelers who have been in the UK for more than 2 hours in the past 14 days will not be allowed entry.
- India: Flights to and from the UK are cancelled through December 31, 2020. Travelers arriving in India from the UK before December 22 are required to take a mandatory RT-PCR test.
- Iran: Flights to and from the UK are cancelled through January 3, 2021.
- Ireland: All flights from Britain have been banned through December 22. All travel to Ireland, including by land or sea, is discouraged; ferry services to the UK have been cancelled.
- Israel: Incoming flights from Britain, Denmark, and South Africa are currently banned, as are foreign nationals from the aforementioned countries
- Italy: Flights to and from the UK have been suspended. Travelers who have visited Britain in the last 14 days are also banned.
- Jamaica: All flights coming from the UK are banned until January 4 beginning December 23. Travelers arriving from the UK on December 22 will be PCR tested on arrival and quarantined for at least 48 hours in government accommodation. Those testing negative will receive armbands to complete a 14-day quarantine at home. Those testing positive will be quarantined by the state until their recovery.
- Japan: Entry from Britain is already banned in principle.
- Jordan: All direct and indirect flights from the UK are banned through January 3, 2021.
- Kuwait: All flights from the UK are suspended.
- Latvia: Flights from the UK are banned until January 1, 2021.
- Lithuania: Flights from the UK are suspended indefinitely.
- Luxembourg: Temporarily suspended flights from the UK.
- Mauritius: Travelers who have been in the UK in the past 14 days will be denied entry until at least December 31.
- Morocco: Flights to and from the UK suspended.
- Netherlands: All flights from the UK are banned.
- North Macedonia: Flight restrictions to be announced.
- Oman: Air, sea and land borders are closed until at least December 29.
- Pakistan: Direct and indirect flights from the UK are suspended through at least December 30. Repratriation flights are still available.
- Panama: Travelers who have stayed in or transited the UK or South Africa in the past 20 days will be prohibited from entering the country.
- Paraguay: Travelers who have been in the UK since December 7 will not be allowed entry. Residents will need to seek approval to enter the country and present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival; they must then quarantine for 10 days in government-provided accommodation or a health hotel. People already in Paraguay, who came from the UK between December 14-21, must isolate at home for seven days from their arrival date.
- Peru: Flights from Europe are banned until at least January 3. Travelers who have been in the UK in the last two weeks will also be denied entry.
- Poland: Flights to and from the UK have been suspended until at least January 6, 2021.
- Portugal: Only Portuguese nationals will be allowed entry to the country on flights from the UK. Travelers will need present a negative COVID-19 test result.
- Russia: Flights to and from the UK are suspended through December 29.
- Saudi Arabia: All international flights, as well as entry through land and sea ports, is suspended until December 28.
- South Korea: Effective immediately, travelers arriving from Britain will be required to present two negative COVID-19 test results before being released from the mandatory 14-day quarantine.
- Spain: Travelers from the UK will be refused entry, unless a Spanish citizen or resident. Border controls at Gibraltar will also be enforced.
- Sweden: Flights from the UK are banned until at least December 23. Travelers from the UK will be denied entry through January 22, 2021.
- Switzerland: Travelers from Great Britain or South Africa will be denied entry.
- Taiwan: No plans to cancel flights from the UK currently. Mandatory 14-day quarantine in effect for all travelers.
- Trinidad and Tobago: Travelers arriving from the UK will be subject to an extended mandatory quarantine of 14 days.
- Tunisia: Flights to and from the UK, Australia & South Africa are suspended until further notice. Travelers who have recently resided or transited the aforementioned countries will also be denied entry.
- Turkey: Flights from the UK, South Africa, the Netherlands, and Denmark are currently banned.
- United States: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Delta Airlines have agreed to test all passengers before they enter New York State, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Monday. Additionally, Virgin Atlantic will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test for all passengers traveling from London to anywhere in the United States starting December 24.
