Planning a getaway to the Caribbean or Europe this August or September?
If you’re travelling abroad before the fall officially starts, it's time to check out Canada's 9 brand new travel advisories.
The federal government recently updated travel advisories for popular destinations in the Caribbean and Europe.
Some are cautionary, and some warn of serious risks like crime, violence, and shortages.
The advisories range from normal precautions to “Avoid all travel,” and these warnings don’t necessarily mean cancelling plans but highlight potential safety issues—from organized crime in Mexico to shortages in Cuba and terrorism threats in France and the U.K.
What countries does Canada advise not to travel to?
Here's what Canadians need to know about the latest government travel advice for these 9 destinations:
Mexico
The Government of Canada advises exercising a high degree of caution in Mexico due to widespread crime and kidnapping. Even tourist hotspots have seen violence in restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs. Border areas and states like Guerrero, Michoacán, and Sinaloa are especially high-risk.
Petty theft is common, while serious crimes like armed robbery and carjackings occur. Stick to tourist zones, avoid walking at night, keep valuables hidden, use reputable transport, and avoid driving after dark or in rental-branded vehicles.
Jamaica
Exercise a high degree of caution in Jamaica due to violent crime. Armed robberies, gang-related shootings, and scams occur even near resorts in Kingston and Montego Bay. Avoid walking alone, especially at night, and stay with trusted people.
Women and 2SLGBTQI+ travellers face higher risks, including harassment, assault, and romance scams. Drink-spiking, credit card fraud, and lottery scams are common — keep drinks in sight and protect your personal information.
Dominican Republic
Exercise a high degree of caution in the Dominican Republic due to crime. Petty theft is common in crowded areas, and thieves on motorcycles target pedestrians and cars. Tourists have been victimized in hotels and taxis. Violent crime, including armed robbery and sexual assault (sometimes involving resort staff), occurs, especially after dark.
Avoid secluded areas and limit nighttime travel. Near the Haitian border, unrest and violence have been reported — travel only in daylight and follow local authorities’ advice.
Germany
Exercise caution in Germany due to terrorism threats. Past extremist attacks have targeted public spaces, markets, and restaurants, and further attacks are possible.
Stay alert in crowded areas and on transit. Petty theft, especially passport theft, is common in train stations and markets — keep valuables secure. Demonstrations and strikes can disrupt travel, so monitor local news.
Planning alpine activities? Hire a guide, get insurance, and avoid going alone.
Cuba
Exercise caution in Cuba due to shortages of food, medicine, water, and fuel. Power outages are common, and transport can be unreliable.
Bring essentials and plan ahead. Petty crime, scams, and theft from hotel rooms occur, while assaults — including at resorts — have been reported. Stick to busy areas, secure valuables, and avoid walking alone at night.
United Kingdom
Exercise caution in the U.K. due to terrorism and petty crime. The national threat level is “substantial,” with past attacks in public spaces and transport hubs.
Stay alert in crowded areas and during major events. Petty theft, phone snatching, and pickpocketing are common in tourist hotspots. Violent crime is rare but possible. Use only licensed taxis or trusted ride apps.
Costa Rica
Exercise caution in Costa Rica due to crime. Petty theft is widespread, especially at beaches, bus terminals, and tourist hotspots like Jacó, Manuel Antonio, and San José.
Passports are frequent targets. Rental cars face break-ins, even in hotel lots, so never leave valuables inside. Violent crime is less common but includes assaults and robberies in coastal areas. Drink spiking and sexual assaults have been reported — stick to trusted transport, watch your drinks, and avoid isolated spots.
France
Exercise high caution in France due to terrorism and crime. The Vigipirate alert is at its highest, with visible security at airports, museums, and tourist sites.
Petty theft and pickpocketing are common on public transit and near landmarks, while assaults and break-ins occur in cities and coastal areas. Keep valuables secure and stay alert.
Spain
Exercise high caution in Spain due to a high terrorism threat and crime. Busy tourist areas, transport hubs, and major events are potential targets.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and vehicle theft are common—stay alert, secure valuables, and avoid suspicious roadside offers.
RECOMMENDED:
Full guide to the best things to do in Montreal