On March 11, the World Health Organization officially classified the COVID-19 outbreak as a pandemic, indicating that every location is likely to be affected, though the exact timing and impact cannot be predicted. Non-essential international and domestic travel should be deferred due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global logistical environment, healthcare systems in all locations, the global economy, the potential for second-order security issues in the short, medium and longer term, as well as the risk of infection with COVID-19. A new virus, SARS-CoV-2, is the cause of COVID-19 disease. The WHO is still learning about the virus and the illness it causes. The disease is spreading from person to person, through contact with infected respiratory droplets. The disease is a mild illness for most; however, it can be severe or fatal to high risk groups.
For more information on confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, refer to the latest Situation Report on the World Health Organization (WHO) website by clicking here. For more general information on the outbreak and WHO’s response, click here.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IMPLEMENTED WORLDWIDE
A number of countries have relaxed some restrictions that aimed to contain the spread of COVID-19. This includes the relaxation of restrictions on internal movement, reopening of businesses and a resumption of some domestic and international travel. Nevertheless, strict measures remain in place, or are being reimposed, in some locations where there is increasing case activity. In some locations all travel should continue to be deferred, while for others essential travel can resume after undertaking an individual risk assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes.
Countries around the world are implementing entry restrictions in an effort to contain the spread of COVID-19. For the most upto-date information on current entry restrictions, please visit IATA’s “Government Measures Related to Coronavirus (COVID19)” website by clicking here.
FROSCH TRAVEL RESOURCES
AMERICAS
UNITED STATES
Travelers should 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.
NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK
Travelers in New Jersey and New York states over the coming hours should avoid the George Washington Bridge, due to significant delays. A burst water main early on January 7 caused flooding and closed the Cross Bronx Expressway, as well as stranding some vehicles. The incident has led to the build-up of significant traffic on both decks of the George Washington Bridge, which connects the Manhattan borough of New York City with Fort Lee, New Jersey.
TEXAS
Travelers in Galveston, Texas and surrounding areas should exercise caution following the passage of a tornado and related storms. The tornado was sighted at around 6:30 PM local time near Crystal Beach and moved east through the region. No casualties were reported, though a gas station and apartment complex in Texas City were reportedly damaged. Related tornado warnings have expired, though a flood warning is in effect for southeastern areas of nearby Brazoria county through January 7.
WASHINGTON DC
Travelers in Washington DC and other urban centers should continue to minimize movement in the vicinity of protest flashpoints and follow all official directives after unruly demonstrations on January 6. Four people died in Washington DC when protesters supportive of President Donald Trump forcibly entered the US Capitol, including one who was shot inside the building. Gatherings of pro-Trump protesters also took place at state capitol buildings in over a dozen states, though these largely remained peaceful. The capital, as well as nearby Alexandria and Arlington in Virginia, remain under a curfew until 6:00 AM local time on January 7. Travelers should exercise caution over the coming hours amid the potential for further demonstrations.
WISCONSIN
Travelers in Kenosha, Wisconsin in the coming days should anticipate demonstrations with potential for unrest linked to the shooting of an African-American man by a local police officer on August 23, 2020. The Kenosha District Attorney indicated that a charging decision for the officer involved in the incident will be announced within the first two weeks of January. As a preemptive measure, local officials have declared a State of Emergency, and the Wisconsin Governor has deployed 500 members of the National Guard to the city. Depending on the decision, there will be a credible risk of unrest, including citywide protests, rioting and looting.
POLITICAL DEMONSTRATIONS
Travelers in the US on January 7 should exercise caution and anticipate potential unrest during demonstrations linked to the November 3, 2020 Presidential Election. Fresh gatherings are planned following violent protests in Washington DC and other cities on January 6. There are persistent underlying risks associated with such events due to the emotive nature of the issues and the potential presence of firearms, counter-demonstrators and extremist individuals. Travelers attending related gatherings should be aware of their surroundings, maintain access to reliable means of communication, and leave at the first sign of unrest.
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
Travelers in Villa Constitucion in the coming hours should plan journeys bypassing a planned demonstration by women’s rights activists. Participants will gather at Plaza San Martin at 7:30 PM local time to demand justice for a local sexual assault victim. While the demonstration is expected to pass off peacefully, it may cause travel disruption in its vicinity.
BOLIVIA
Travelers in Sucre in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by adverse weather. Heavy rainfall has led to flash flooding and significant disruption throughout the city. At least four people have been killed. According to local reports, the Campesino marketplace area has been the most severely affected. Further rain is forecast for the area through January 8. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes before undertaking road travel.
COLOMBIA
Travelers in Cauca department should plan journeys today accounting for road disruption following landslides along the Pan-American Highway near the municipality of Rosas. Emergency services personnel are addressing the situation, but authorities have thus far not provided a timeframe on when the route will be cleared. Travelers should exercise caution and ensure routes are clear prior to setting out.
Essential travel to Colombia can continue subject to an assessment of the COVID-19 situation and entry restrictions, including the potential for sudden changes. From January 12, all inbound travelers will be required to present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PRC) test result conducted no more than 96 hours prior to departure. People who encounter difficulties in taking the test may be permitted to take it upon arrival; however, they must quarantine for 14 days or until a negative result is obtained.
MEXICO
Travelers in Riviera Maya on January 7 should plan journeys bypassing a protest over the death of a local woman to minimize travel delays. Participants will gather at 5:00 PM local time outside the Hard Rock Hotel. Disruption is likely in the vicinity of the event.
PERU
Travelers in Lima and other urban centers on January 9 should avoid planned demonstrations as a precaution and to minimize travel disruption. In Lima, a rally will be held in Plaza San Martin at 4:00 PM local time on the day. The action has been called in response to the deaths of protesters during clashes with police on December 30, 2020. Related protests are likely in other urban centers, particularly in northern Peru, where the fatalities occurred. Attempts by police to forcibly disperse gatherings or dismantle roadblocks are likely to prompt clashes with protesters, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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
AGREEMENT BETWEEN QATAR & THE QUARTET
Travelers in the Middle East should monitor developments over the coming weeks following an agreement between Qatar and the Quartet (Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates). Both parties agreed to reestablish diplomatic relations in a deal signed on January 5. Earlier, on January 4, Saudi Arabia reopened its air, land and sea border crossings with Qatar. The agreement will effectively end the diplomatic dispute in place between the two sides since June 2017, though tensions will periodically flare up. Further announcements on the easing of travel restrictions between Qatar and the Quartet are likely over the coming weeks.
HEIGHTENED US-IRAN TENSIONS
Travelers in the Middle East over the coming weeks should continue to monitor developments amid heightened USIran regional tensions. Iran announced on January 4 that it had started to enrich uranium up to 20% purity at its Fordo facility. On the same day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) seized a South Korean-flagged vessel near the Strait of Hormuz. The developments will further stoke US-Iran tensions over the coming weeks, though a direct military conflict remains unlikely. Nevertheless, there remains a risk of a miscalculation and/or misidentification sparking a sudden rise in tit-for-tat exchanges and a broader regional escalation.
ANGOLA
Travelers in urban centers, including Luanda, on January 9 should avoid anti-government protests organized by civil society activists. Most gatherings will begin at 11:00 AM local time. While the events are expected to pass off peacefully, previous similar protests have been forcefully dispersed by security forces. As such, all related gatherings pose a credible risk to anyone in the vicinity.
CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC
A militia alliance dubbed the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) has been blamed for recent attacks in Bangassou, Bambari, and the country’s southwest. The alliance comprises three main armed groups. Since January 4, it has staged attacks in Bangassou, Bambari, Mbaiki, Bossembele and Yolake. In addition, on December 25, 2020, the CPC interrupted the self-imposed 72-hour ceasefire, resuming fighting in Bakouma. These latest incidents are a reminder to defer all travel outside Bangui.
Travelers should exercise caution in the coming weeks after the release of provisional results on January 4 of the December 2020 General Elections. While President Faustin-Archange Touadera was declared the winner with around 53% of all ballots cast, opposition groups have rejected the outcome. Protests over potential increase on essential supplies due ongoing militia violence as well as perceived irregularities during the vote may occur around the expected release of final results on January 19. Additionally, further attacks attributed to the newly formed Coalition of Patriots for Change group (CPC) remain likely
EGYPT
Travelers in Egypt in the coming days should expect an increased security force presence around Christian places of worship ahead of and during Coptic Christmas celebrations on January 6-7. Similar measures have been taken in recent years mainly due the Coptic churches being potential targets for militant attacks, especially during the holiday period; however, the elevated security this year is also part of the stricter COVID-19 measures in country. Travelers should minimize time spent around such sites during this period as a precaution.
GHANA
Travelers in Accra on January 7 should avoid demonstrations coinciding with the inauguration of President Nana Akufo-Addo. The opposition National Democratic Congress party continues to contest the election result. Security forces are liable to forcibly disperse gatherings as the government has banned all protests in Greater Accra region until January 10. Travelers should anticipate travel disruption near the Parliament building, where several roads will be closed on the day between 4:00 AM and 6:00 PM local time.
IRAQ
Travelers 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
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 should abide by official directives following the imposition of a fresh COVID-19-related lockdown from January 8 until at least January 22. This will involve the closure of all non-essential shops and schools. Indoor gatherings will be limited to five people. Traveling abroad will also be prohibited unless it is for essential purposes. Arriving travelers will be subject to up to 14 days of quarantine in a state-run hotel.
KUWAIT
Travelers should reconfirm their itineraries and follow official directives related to the COVID-19 pandemic. From 4:00 AM local time on January 6, all flights to/from the UK will be suspended until further notice. In addition, from January 6, all arriving passengers will have to present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result taken up to 96 hours before departure. They will also have to undergo a PCR test upon arrival.
LEBANON
Travelers in Beirut on January 7 should plan routes bypassing a planned protest in the Palais de Justice district to minimize inconvenience. Demonstrators will gather outside the Ministry of Justice at 12:00 PM local time to demand an independent judicial system. Although the protest is likely to be peaceful, travelers should anticipate local disruption in the vicinity.
Travelers in Lebanon should abide by official directives following the tightening of COVID-19-related restrictions. A nationwide lockdown will be introduced from January 7 until at least February 1, with a nightly curfew from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM local time during this period. A full lockdown will be imposed on Sundays.
MADAGASCAR
Travelers in Antananarivo over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests by students from the Ecole Normale Superieure (ENS) over a longstanding dispute with the government. On January 6, pupils of the ENS blocked the Andavamamba district’s roundabout with burning tires. The protest was forcibly dispersed by security forces, who used tear gas and arrested several demonstrators. Further related gatherings are likely and may pose incidental risks to bystanders.
MALI
Travelers in Bamako on January 8 should plan journeys bypassing a planned protest by the Collective for the Development of the Republic civil society group. Participants are expected to gather at 2:00 PM local time at Place de la Liberte before marching towards the Monument de l’Independance. The event has been called to denounce the perceived arbitrary arrest of the group leader on December 20, 2020 on charges of endangering the state’s security. The gathering may cause local disruption and should be avoided as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience.
MOROCCO
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should anticipate and avoid further gatherings over the government’s decision to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel. On January 4, anti-normalization groups condemned the government’s approach towards related gatherings and called for further protests. A demonstration was held on January 1 in Oujda. An unauthorized sit-in was held on December 14 in front of the Parliament building in Rabat after security forces prevented demonstrators from reaching the main square. Travelers should expect further antigovernment protests and anticipate a heightened security force presence around associated gatherings.
NAMIBIA
Travelers in Karas region in the coming days should reconfirm the status of roads following damage caused by flooding from heavy rainfall. According to the Roads Authority (RA), roads in the areas of Aroab, Grunau, Karasburg, Keetmanshoop, Noordoewer and Warmbad have been damaged rendering some routes difficult to navigate. Key routes affected include parts of the B1 National Highway and the C16 Road, both of which link to national border posts. Some roads remain flooded and impassable. The heavy rainfall comes following the passage of Tropical Storm Chalane between January 1 and 2. The RA is still assessing the condition of roads in the region. Travelers should exercise vigilance when conducting road travel.
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.
A yellow fever outbreak has been reported in at least 13 states. Fatalities have occurred. Yellow fever is a potentially severe viral illness spread via mosquito bites. It can be prevented through vaccination and by avoiding mosquito bites. There is a risk of yellow fever throughout Nigeria. Vaccination is recommended for everyone 9 months of age or older. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry for anyone 9 months of age or older.
Travelers in Lagos state in the coming hours should reconfirm itineraries and anticipate traffic disruption following an accident involving a fuel tanker along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway. The explosion occurred at around 10:00 AM local time near the Toyota bus stop, causing a large fire. While the fire has been contained, travelers should seek alternative routes and bypass the area to minimize delays.
SAMOA
Travelers in Samoa in the coming days should plan journeys accounting for disruption caused by ongoing adverse weather. Heavy rain on January 6 caused flash floods in various parts of the country, including Apia. The Samoa Meteorology Division (SMD) has issued heavy rain and flood warnings for the entire country. A marine advisory remains in place, meaning waves of up to eight feet may affect coastal areas. Emergency response and restoration efforts are under way.
SENEGAL
Travelers in Dakar over the coming days should expect and avoid further protests over the imposition of new COVID-19-related restrictions. On January 6, local youths demonstrated in several parts of the city against the implementation of a curfew. Security forces used tear gas to disperse protesters who had stormed a police station in Thiaroye district.
SOMALIA
At least three people were killed, and five injured, in a roadside bombing near the KM4 junction of Hodan district of Mogadishu on January 7. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack which targeted a military vehicle. This latest incident underscores the city’s extreme travel risks and the need for dedicated professional security support and stringent journey management protocols for any essential travels outside of secure premises.
SOUTH SUDAN
Authorities announced on January 4 that at least four people were killed and six others injured following deadly communal violence in Cueibet county. Armed youths from Waat and Panyar communities engaged in communal revenge attacks over grazing land. The incident highlights the extreme travel risks in South Sudan, as well as the need to avoid all travel outside Juba and the Palouge oil field.
SUDAN
Travelers in Khartoum and other urban centers on January 8 should anticipate heightened security and associated disruption during protests against the inclusion of a controversial painting in the country’s primary school curriculum. Islamist groups and Muslim clerics are calling for processions after Friday midday prayers from mosques countrywide. No specific routes have been announced, though security forces are liable to pre-emptively close down major thoroughfares and bridges, especially in Khartoum.
TUNISIA
Travelers in Gafsa governorate on January 7 should reconfirm their travel arrangements and account for disruption during a 24-hour general strike organized by the Regional Labor Union. The work stoppage has been called over socio-economic grievances, including the perceived delays in the implementation of measures to support employment and health sectors. Associated protests around institutional buildings are likely and should be avoided as a precaution and to minimize inconvenience.
TURKEY
Travelers in Ankara on January 8 should avoid a students’ protest in Guvenpark as a precaution. The protest, which will start at 2:00 PM local time, is being held in solidarity with other student demonstrations held at Bogazici University in Istanbul. Security forces reportedly dispersed related gatherings on January 6 in Ankara. Travelers should avoid all protests due to the risk of clashes between protesters and security forces, which can pose incidental risks to bystanders.
Travelers in Istanbul province over the coming hours should avoid an ongoing rally at the Çaglayan Courthouse in Sisli district, as a precaution. Participants are demanding the immediate release of detained student protesters. The students were arrested during demonstrations against President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s controversial appointment of Melih Bulu as Bogazici University’s rector. Critics of the appointment say it is politicized and have queried Bulu’s academic qualifications.
UGANDA
Travelers in Uganda in the coming weeks should monitor developments and avoid all gatherings related to the upcoming Presidential Election, which is due to take place on January 14. Since November 2020, more than 50 people have been killed and hundreds arrested during election-related rallies. There is also a possibility of a communications outage in the aftermath of the election day in the event of widespread unrest. Travelers should closely monitor developments to strictly avoid all gatherings and minimize non-essential movement on January 14-16 as a precaution.
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
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 Queensland state should account for residual disruption due to adverse weather caused by the passage of former tropical cyclone Imogen. The weather system has been downgraded and is forecast to continue moving towards the northeastern coastline in the coming days before dissipating near Townsville. Authorities have issued flood warnings for the coming week due to the risk of overflowing rivers from continued heavy rainfall. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes with local contacts before setting out on overland journeys.
In the coming days, travelers in Western Australia state, including Perth, should plan journeys accounting for bushfire danger warnings. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has issued a Bushfire Emergency Warning (immediate action required) for areas east of Indian Ocean Drive, as well as the shires of Gingin and Dandaragan. Meanwhile, a Severe Fire Danger warning (fourth-highest level on a six-tier scale) is in place for inland Central West, Lower West (including Perth) and inland Gascoyne regions.
BANGLADESH
Travelers in urban centers, including Dhaka, on January 7 and 10 should anticipate disruption and avoid nationwide demonstrations by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The party is protesting against the increasing food prices and alleged electoral malpractices. Participants plan to form human chains and hold demonstrations across all sub-districts and urban centers on January 7 and 10 respectively.
BHUTAN
Travelers in Bhutan should continue to abide by all official directives related to COVID-19 despite the upcoming easing of the restrictions. Authorities have announced that the ongoing lockdown measures will be relaxed in two phases starting from January 6. All districts have been divided into red, yellow, and green zones. Stringent measures will remain in place in Thimphu and Paro district, which are currently the only areas classified as red. Authorities will reassess the situation on January 13 and announce further relaxations. Travelers should abide by all official directives.
CHINA
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.
Travelers in China should defer non-essential travel to Shijiazhuang, following the tightening of COVID-19-related local inbound and outbound restrictions. Authorities have suspended long-haul coach services and closed multiple inter-city highways. Train services to Beijing have also been halted. Over 120 flights were reportedly canceled at the Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW) on January 6. Those taking flights or trains in Shijiazhuang are required to present a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test result, conducted within three days of departure.
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. On January 6, 53 anti-government activists, including one foreigner with US citizenship, were arrested for alleged NSL violations. These arrests are unlikely to result in a significant increase in public demonstrations; however, there remains a credible potential for small-scale gatherings, especially during the trials of prominent activists. Due to underlying tensions, there is also a potential for hardline protesters to employ violent tactics, highlighting the need to continue avoiding any related gatherings.
INDIA
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.
Although a decline in case trend has been noted, transmission is ongoing. Health authorities have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people who have COVID-19 and their contacts. Travelers should follow all directives; to prevent infection, limit face-to-face interactions with other people as much as possible, pay attention to hygiene, wash hands frequently, avoid touching your face. Wear a mask whenever required to and when in public. Do not travel if you are sick.
Travelers in the National Capital Region (NCR), which includes New Delhi and parts of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh states, should continue to expect significant disruption amid ongoing farmers’ protests. Farmers’ groups will hold tractor rallies from 11:00 AM local time on January 7 on the Eastern Peripheral Expressway and Western Peripheral Expressway. The rallies will start from protest sites at Ghazipur, Tikri, Kundli and Rewasan. Farmers also plan to blockade highway toll plazas between January 6 and 20 in Haryana and Punjab states.
INDONESIA
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 in Jakarta should continue to abide by all official directives following the extension of transitional LargeScale Social Restrictions (PSBB) until January 17. Various associated measures remain in force throughout the capital, including limitations on operating hours for most establishments, a ban on public gatherings of more than five people, and restrictions on travel to and from areas not under the PSBB.
Travelers in Bali and Java islands should continue to abide by all official directives following the tightening of LargeScale Social Restrictions (PSBB) in certain areas throughout the two islands from January 11-25. The new restrictions include limiting workplace capacity to 25% for all non-essential sectors, limiting the opening hours of shopping centers to 7:00 PM local time, and a reduction in the operating hours for most public transport. Travel to and from areas not under the PSBB remains restricted.
Travelers in Central Java province and the Special Region of Yogyakarta over the coming days should closely monitor developments and follow official directives amid continued volcanic activity at Mount Merapi. The Yogyakarta Geological Disaster Technology Research and Development Centre (BPPTKG) has maintained the volcano’s status at level three (‘watch’, second-highest on a four-tier scale) since November 5. A danger zone with a three-mile radius around Merapi’s crater has been imposed. According to BPPTKG, at-risk areas include parts of Sleman, as well as Boyolai, Klaten and Magelang regencies.
JAPAN
Travelers in Tokyo and neighboring Chiba, Kanagawa, and Saitama prefectures should follow all official directives amid a State of Emergency until February 7. As part of the measures, restaurants and bars are to close by 8:00 PM local time, and residents are requested to refrain from non-essential outings. Authorities have also urged companies to encourage 70% of their commuting staff to work from home. Additionally, the number of people at spectator events will be capped at 50% or a maximum of 5,000.
Travelers in Japan, particularly the northern and northeastern areas, should anticipate and plan journeys accounting for disruption during the ongoing winter season, which will last until March. Adverse weather conditions will continue to cause short-notice travel disruption and/or interrupt power supply, particularly in smaller cities and rural locations. Over 400 domestic flights were canceled on January 7 due to bad weather. The Shinkansen high-speed train services in Yamagata prefecture and train services in other parts of Tohoku were also suspended.
KYRGYZSTAN
Travelers in Kyrgyzstan in the coming week should avoid all political gatherings related to the Presidential Election and the Constitutional Referendum, both of which will be held on January 10. Associated protests in Bishkek have thus far remained relatively small and peaceful; however, the risk of local clashes between rival political party supporters or with security forces remains credible in the lead-up to and in the aftermath of the upcoming events. Travelers should closely monitor developments to remain apprised of any further planned gatherings and minimize non-essential movement on January 10 as a precaution.
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.
Travelers in Malaysia in the coming days should continue to anticipate travel disruption and reconfirm itineraries amid heavy rainfall. The applies especially to Johor, Kelantan, Pahang, Sabah and Terengganu states. Flooding persists in parts of these states, and more than 28,000 people have been evacuated. Multiple sections of the East Coast Expressway, including between Temerloh and Lanchang, as well as eastbound lanes to Kuantan remain closed due to flooding.
NEPAL
Travelers in urban centers should plan journeys bypassing protests by the royalist Rastriya Prajatantra Party-Nepal (RRP-N) until January 9. Details of future gatherings are not available at this time. The party is demanding that Nepal be designated a Hindu state and that the constitutional monarchy, which was abolished in 2008, be restored. The RPP-N held related well-attended demonstrations in Kathmandu on both December 26, 2020 and January 1. Similar events were held in Birgunj on December 27, 2020. The gatherings come amid ongoing protests against the recent dissolution of Parliament.
NEW CALEDONIA
Travelers in urban centers in the coming days should continue to monitor developments and anticipate protests over the planned sale of a large nickel plant in Goro. Six individuals linked to setting several fires at the mining site periodically from December 31, 2020 have been arrested. There were also clashes reported between demonstrators and police on December 30 after several intrusion attempts at the site. Associated disruption can be expected in the coming days as tensions persist and may pose incidental risks to bystanders.
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
Travelers in Pakistan in the coming weeks should continue to monitor developments and avoid demonstrations organized by the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition due to the risk of unrest. The PDM has scheduled several rallies across the country in their second campaign to demand the ouster of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) government by January 31, 2021. Should the PTI not capitulate, they plan to march to Islamabad. The protests are likely to be well attended and have a heightened security presence. Traffic disruption and local scuffles between protesters and security forces may occur during the demonstrations.
Travelers in urban centers over the coming days should anticipate and avoid further protests over a fatal January 3 attack in Balochistan province. The incident targeted members of the minority Shia Muslim Hazara community. Related demonstrations are ongoing along the Western Bypass in Quetta and in several parts of Karachi. Protesters in Quetta are demanding that Prime Minister Imran Khan visit them. Associated gatherings also took place on January 6 in Karachi, causing significant disruption and prompting the citywide deployment of additional police officers.
PHILIPPINES
Travelers in Metro Manila on January 9 should expect heightened security and road disruption due to the celebration of the Feast of the Black Nazarene. The annual procession has been canceled this year due to COVID-19; however, local authorities have announced road closures in anticipation of devotees gathering to commemorate the celebrations in and around the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene or the Quiapo Church. At least 7,000 police officers will be stationed in the area to secure the event and manage the crowd. Travelers are advised to maintain flexible itineraries on the day to minimize inconvenience.
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
Travelers in Thailand should abide by official directives amid renewed measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Entertainment venues, educational institutions, and other business establishments are closed across 28 provinces classified as “maximum control zones” (also called “red zones”) until further notice. The zones include Bangkok. While interprovincial travel is permitted, authorities have advised against non-essential travel and introduced health screening measures, especially for visitors from red zones. The ongoing State of Emergency has been extended until at least February 28. Travelers should liaise with local contacts and closely monitor reliable sources of information as authorities’ directives can change at short notice.
Travelers in Bangkok on January 7 should avoid an ongoing protest outside the Thung Maha Mek Police Station. The gathering is being held in support of 13 protest leaders charged with leading a march to the German Embassy on October 26 to submit a petition. Traffic disruption is likely around the protest. Police may employ tough crowdcontrol measures in the event of any disturbances, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
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.
EUROPE
EASTERN ORTHODOX CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY
Travelers in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region and Georgia should anticipate disruption to travel and business activities ahead of and during Eastern Orthodox Christmas holiday period on January 6-7. Many businesses, banks, and offices are closed or operate at reduced hours during this period, even as the exact holiday dates vary across the region. Additionally, a heightened security presence can be expected in the vicinity of celebrative venues and gatherings as well as Eastern Orthodox churches across urban centers.
BREXIT
Travelers traveling between the UK and member states of the EU in the coming weeks should reconfirm itineraries and abide by all official directives. New regulations have come into force since the end of the transition period on December 31, 2020, following the UK’s withdrawal from the EU (Brexit) on January 31, 2020. The European Commission (EC) has recommended member states treat the UK as a third country under its travel restriction regulations, only permitting travel for essential reasons.
GEORGIA
In the coming days, travelers in urban centers, including Tbilisi and Batumi, should anticipate and avoid further protests against the legitimacy of the Parliamentary Election. Most of the opposition continues to boycott Parliament sessions amid ongoing negotiations with the ruling Georgian Dream party but have temporarily called off larger demonstrations amid restrictions related to COVID-19. A small number of opposition supporters have vowed to hold election-related protests indefinitely near the Parliament building in Tbilisi and near the government building in Batumi. On December 13, at least six activists were detained following clashes with security forces during protests in Batumi outside the Supreme Council building.
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.
Travelers in Kozani over the coming days should anticipate further rallies to demand additional financial support from the central government. Demonstrators drove in a convoy from Camelot intersection to the Regional Administration office on January 4, causing significant traffic disruption on the National Road 20 Motorway. Further related protests are likely, particularly amid the current COVID-19-related measures.
ITALY
Travelers in Italy should abide by official directives following the extension of the nationwide lockdown until January 15. Until then, residents are only allowed to leave their homes for work, health and emergency reasons. Nonessential shops, restaurants, and bars will remain closed. All incoming travelers are required to quarantine for 14 days, regardless of their place of origin, while inter-regional travel within Italy remains prohibited.
RUSSIA
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.
SWEDEN
Travelers in Stockholm can resume movement in the Gamla Stan area following a police operation responding to reports of a suspicious package. The national bomb squad was on scene and had cordoned off the area. Several adjacent buildings were also reportedly evacuated. The suspicious package has been deemed harmless by authorities.
UKRAINE
Travelers in Ukraine should continue to abide by official directives following the tightening of internal COVID-19- related restrictions. Authorities have announced a nationwide lockdown from January 8 until at least January 25, during which non-essential businesses will remain closed. All public gatherings and mass events have been banned. The restrictions come amid high levels of anger over the economic effects of business closures. Since March, regular protests against the restrictions have occurred, with occasional related unrest.
UNITED KINGDOM
Travelers in London on January 9 should plan journeys bypassing protests against COVID-19-related restrictions as a precaution and to minimize travel delays. A protest will be held from 12:00 PM local time on January 9 in central London, although the exact location has not been announced. The events are being organized by several activist groups, including StandUpX, to denounce perceived civil rights infringements under ongoing lockdown measures linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous demonstrations by StandUpX have notably degenerated into scuffles between participants and police, posing incidental risks to bystanders.
BREXIT
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 came 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).
ENGLAND
Travelers in England in the coming weeks should abide by all official directives amid the implementation of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A new national lockdown will take effect from 12:01 AM local time on January 5 until at least February 15. Only essential movements will be authorized and must be strictly limited.
SCOTLAND
Travelers in Scotland in the coming weeks should abide by all official directives amid the implementation of new restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. From 12:01 AM local time on January 5, entering and exiting Scotland, as well as leaving one’s accommodation, is only permitted for essential reasons.
NEW TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS RELATED TO VARIANT OF COVID -19
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.
Transmission of COVID-19 continues to surge in some regions. There is limited acute care bed availability and hospitals are either near or at capacity. Different levels of local restrictions on movement and gatherings are in place across the country. Health authorities have implemented protocols for isolation, quarantine, testing, and managing people who have COVID-19 and their contacts. Travelers should follow all directives. To prevent infection, travelers should 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.
Travelers due to travel to and from the UK should reconfirm itineraries. Countries around the world continue to announce new travel restrictions in the wake of recent developments involving COVID-19. Further travel restrictions are likely to be announced in the coming days. Travelers should abide by official directives. Eurostar has suspended all trains between London, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
