Durrant Pate/Contributor

Canada has expanded its travel advisory list with Jamaica’s return as a country of concern, joined by Caribbean neighbour Trinidad and Tobago.

In a sweeping update, the Canadian government has expanded its travel advisories, placing several popular tourist destinations like Jamaica on its high-risk list, all flagged due to heightened risks of violent crime, terrorism, and regional instability.

The updated alerts come amid growing concerns over violent crime, terrorism, gang activity, and regional instability in these destinations. While not named in the advisory headline, Jamaica also remains under high alert. 

Jamaican locations flagged

Canada advises caution across the island, particularly in Greater Kingston, Montego Bay, and St. Catherine, due to escalating gang violence in areas like Tivoli Gardens, Trench Town and August Town, which the advisory says have witnessed frequent shootings, armed robberies, and drug-related violence. 

It added that, “tourists are often vulnerable to crossfire or crimes of opportunity, such as theft and mugging. Sporadic States Of Emergency (SOE) in various parishes allow security forces increased authority, including detentions and searches.”

As of the latest guidance, Trinidad and Tobago joins a group of countries including Mexico, Brazil, United Kingdom, India, United Arab Emirates, Spain, and Turkey. Canada advises nationals to exercise a high degree of caution in the twin-island Caribbean republic, due to widespread violent crime. 

The advisory is particularly critical for areas including Beetham Estate Gardens, Laventille, Sea Lots, downtown Port of Spain (specifically around Picadilly Street, Charlotte Street, and Independence Square) and Cocorite (north of Western Main Road).

These regions are grappling with gang-related violence, armed robberies, and assaults. Even tourist zones aren’t immune. Travellers are urged to avoid these areas, especially at night, and maintain strict personal security protocols.

Other destinations flagged

Mexico continues to draw travel warnings for violent crime and kidnappings. While many parts of the country remain open to travel, Canada strongly advises avoiding non-essential travel to the following regions: Chiapas, Guerrero, and Michoacán (except select cities), Sinaloa, Sonora, and Tamaulipas, as well as border zones with Jalisco, Zacatecas, and Durango.

The advisory cites cartel-related violence, frequent clashes with police, and high kidnapping rates, making these areas especially dangerous. Even in major cities, petty crimes like pickpocketing and armed robbery are common.

Canada urges travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Brazil due to persistent gang violence, particularly in major cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. Popular tourist areas may appear safe but are not immune to sudden criminal activity.

Additionally, avoid non-essential travel within 50 kilometres of the Venezuelan border and 20 kilometres of borders with Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, and others, where organised crime and trafficking pose elevated threats.

India’s vast geography presents varying risk levels. While general travel requires caution due to the threat of terrorism, some areas are deemed off-limits: Jammu and Kashmir (excluding Ladakh), border zones with Pakistan in Gujarat, Punjab, and Rajasthan; as well as parts of Assam and Manipur in the northeast.

These regions face the threat of insurgent attacks, civil unrest, and cross-border skirmishes. In cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru, the threat of terror-related incidents persists despite security improvements.

Although widely considered safe for tourists, the United Arab Emirates has been flagged for its ongoing threat of terrorism and vulnerability to drone and missile strikes, largely due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. Canada advises travellers to remain alert in public spaces, especially near airports, military facilities, and oil infrastructure. 

High-profile events and holiday celebrations are also potential targets. These alerts serve as a cautionary notice to Canadian travellers planning trips in 2024 and beyond, urging them to remain vigilant or reconsider travel altogether in certain areas.