Canada is warning travellers about the risk of terrorism in multiple popular holiday destinations in Europe.
On Tuesday (Oct. 4), the Canadian government updated and issued security advisories for numerous counties, including popular European holiday destinations including France, Belgium and the United Kingdom.
In the United Kingdom, travellers are warned about incidents that have resulted in casualties. They include random "violent incidents in public areas, such as knife and vehicle attacks as well as explosions," according to the advisory.
While the lion's share of the violent incidents have occurred in London, other attacks have taken place outside of the city.
In France, Canadian travellers are advised that "several opportunistic and premeditated attacks have occurred" over the past few years, resulting in many casualties and injuries.
"Further attacks are likely," notes the advisory.
France's "Operation Sentinelle" deploys military brigades in public places to patrol and deter terrorist acts. Visitors should expect an increased military presence in public places, including popular tourist places and transport hubs.
In Belgium, the government notes that "separate attacks causing multiple deaths and injuries have taken place" and further attacks cannot be ruled out.
In addition to France, Belgium, and the United Kingdom, the United States issued travel advisories for Italy and Spain due to the threat of terrorism.
So far, the Canadian government hasn't updated its travel advice for Italy or Spain but underscores that "there is a threat of terrorism in Europe" and "terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities."
Canada travel advisory includes the threat of terrorism in numerous countries
The Canadian government advises that targets of terrorism often include government schools, places of worship, airports, trains, tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Travellers should always be aware of their surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:
- sporting events
- religious holidays
- public celebrations
- major political events, such as elections
The advisory notes that terrorists may use these occasions to mount attacks.
Recently, Canada updated its India travel advisory due to the threat of terrorist attacks throughout the country.
Canada also advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in several popular Southeast Asian tourist destinations, such as Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand, but for a host of other reasons, including everything from drink spiking to political tensions to petty crime.
The government also advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to increased criminal activity and kidnapping.
Travellers to coveted sun destinations including the Bahamas and Costa Rica are also advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to crime.
