As summer winds down, Canadians planning international travel are being urged to stay vigilant as Canada releases its 2025 travel advisory, now including Spain alongside France, Germany, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and other popular destinations. The advisory highlights a range of safety concerns, from rising crime rates and organized criminal activity to terrorism threats and ongoing shortages of essential goods. These warnings aim to equip travellers with critical information, helping them navigate high-risk areas, protect personal belongings, and take proactive safety measures while enjoying their trips abroad.
As summer fades, Canadians are setting their sights on overseas holidays. Before finalizing your bookings or packing for the trip, it’s crucial to review Canada’s most recent travel advisories. These updates provide essential safety guidance for popular destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America, addressing concerns such as crime, terrorism threats, and shortages of essential supplies.
Canada issues travel alerts under four levels of caution:
- Take normal security precautions
- Exercise a high degree of caution
- Avoid non-essential travel
- Avoid all travel
These alerts are not meant to discourage your trip, but they help you make informed decisions and minimize risks while abroad.
Here’s the latest advisory status for some of the most visited destinations:
Costa Rica
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution due to elevated crime risks.
Costa Rica remains a top eco-tourism destination, but visitors should remain alert in tourist-heavy areas. Petty theft is frequent on beaches, at bus stations, and at scenic spots. Thieves often operate in groups using distraction tactics to snatch valuables like phones, wallets, and passports. Rental cars are common targets for break-ins, and there have been reports of assaults and drink tampering. Avoid isolated areas, use trusted transportation, and keep valuables secured at all times.
United Kingdom
Advisory Level: Travelers are urged to exercise heightened caution due to potential terrorism threats.
The U.K.’s cultural landmarks and historic cities attract millions each year, but travellers should remain alert to terrorism risks, especially in crowded spaces like transport hubs and major events. Pickpocketing is widespread in tourist districts, so keep personal items secure. Use licensed taxis or reliable ride-hailing services to stay safe during your journey.
Mexico
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution due to risks of crime and kidnapping.
Mexico offers stunning beaches and vibrant traditions, yet organized crime and violent incidents remain a concern. Armed robberies, express kidnappings, and petty theft are reported in urban areas and on public transportation. Certain border states carry heightened security risks. Stick to well-known tourist areas, avoid late-night travel, and book only trusted transportation options.
Cuba
Advisory Level: Exercise heightened caution due to limited availability of essential goods.
Cuba’s charm and beaches remain appealing, but visitors should be prepared for limited access to essentials, including food, medicine, bottled water, and fuel. Frequent power outages and transport delays may affect travel plans. While violent crime is uncommon, petty theft is an issue, particularly in hotels and vehicles. Avoid walking alone at night and keep valuables locked away.
Germany
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution due to ongoing terrorism risks.
Germany generally offers a safe travel experience, but terrorist threats and extremist activity cannot be ignored. Busy train stations, markets, and tourist attractions are prime targets for pickpockets. Demonstrations and transport strikes can disrupt itineraries, so check local updates regularly. For outdoor activities like skiing or hiking, use professional guides and ensure adequate insurance coverage.
Dominican Republic
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution due to elevated crime risks.
Known for its resort lifestyle and pristine beaches, the Dominican Republic has seen instances of petty theft and violent crime, particularly in urban centers and during nighttime hours. Motorbike thefts and incidents involving taxis have been reported. Avoid travel near the Haitian border after dark and choose only reputable accommodations and transport providers.
France
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution due to potential terrorism threats.
France continues to experience heightened security measures in response to terrorism concerns, especially in crowded areas and tourist hubs. Pickpocketing is a persistent issue in metros, train stations, and major attractions. Residential break-ins and street crimes have been reported in urban areas. Always secure your belongings and remain alert in busy zones.
Jamaica
Advisory Level: Travelers should exercise heightened caution because of the risk of violent crime.
Jamaica offers breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, but armed robberies and gang-related violence are significant concerns. Incidents have occurred near resort areas as well. Avoid isolated places, especially after dark, and secure personal belongings. Female travellers and 2SLGBTQI+ visitors should take extra precautions to prevent harassment and scams.
Spain
Advisory Level: Exercise heightened vigilance due to potential terrorism threats.
Spain’s architecture, beaches, and cultural richness make it a top destination, but terrorism threats and petty crime require vigilance. Pickpocketing in markets, transport hubs, and busy streets is common. Thieves often target parked vehicles, so use secure parking facilities. Avoid accepting roadside assistance from strangers and rely on official services.
Canada’s 2025 travel advisory now includes Spain, France, Germany, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, and more, warning Canadians of rising crime, high-risk destinations, and urgent safety measures to stay protected while travelling abroad.
Staying informed about Canada’s 2025 travel advisory is essential for a safe and worry-free trip. By understanding crime risks, high-risk destinations, and recommended safety measures, Canadians can plan responsibly, avoid potential hazards, and enjoy their international travel with confidence.
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