Published on
September 19, 2025
As international travel picks up, Cyprus has joined Argentina, Panama, Serbia, Greece, Japan, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan in issuing new travel advisories for their visitors. This follows Canada’s recently updated travel warning, which highlights potential risks and advises caution for tourists in certain regions across the globe. These countries are reacting to growing concerns such as geopolitical tensions, crime hotspots, civil unrest, and natural hazards, prompting them to issue alerts to ensure the safety of international travelers. With these updates, travelers are urged to stay informed about the changing global travel landscape.
As global travel continues to recover, several countries have issued updated travel advisories, with Canada at the forefront in providing new warnings for international tourists. In tandem, countries like Cyprus, Argentina, Panama, Serbia, Greece, Japan, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan have also made notable changes to their travel alerts, urging citizens and travelers to exercise heightened caution in specific areas. These updates come amidst growing concerns over safety, geopolitical tensions, and criminal activity, reflecting the changing dynamics of international travel.
Cyprus Joins Global Advisory Movement
Cyprus, a Mediterranean island with a unique political situation, has joined the growing list of countries issuing travel advisories. The Cypriot government has heightened alerts, particularly for those traveling in the northern part of the island, which is under Turkish Cypriot administration. The government has warned visitors about the legal risks associated with traveling through this region and stressed the importance of using designated crossing points. Cyprus’ political division since 1974 has created a delicate environment for travelers, and the situation remains under scrutiny.
Cyprus is also aligning with other nations, including Argentina and Panama, in cautioning tourists about regions with high-risk crime rates. The buffer zone, or the “Green Line,” that divides the island’s northern and southern parts, controlled by the United Nations Peacekeeping Force, also remains an area of concern. While travel across this zone is permitted under certain conditions, Cyprus has advised tourists to stay alert and avoid unauthorized crossings.
Argentina’s Enhanced Security Measures
Argentina has taken immediate action in response to rising international tensions. In particular, security measures have been increased around Jewish institutions, including schools, clubs, and synagogues. These enhanced precautions come after increased concerns linked to Middle Eastern tensions, with the government taking extra steps to safeguard these institutions from potential threats.
Tourists are advised to stay informed and aware of these heightened measures, particularly if they are visiting sensitive areas. While Argentina remains a popular tourist destination, travelers should be prepared for increased security, especially in urban centers like Buenos Aires.
Panama’s Travel Warning: High-Risk Areas
Panama has issued a stark warning regarding travel in the region between Metetí and the Colombian border. This area, notorious for violent crime and drug trafficking, has become increasingly dangerous. Organized crime groups—including those involved in human trafficking and drug smuggling—are active in this region, and tourists are strongly discouraged from venturing into these areas.
Moreover, Panama has also cautioned against visiting the Mosquito Gulf, a remote area along the coast with limited infrastructure and increased criminal activity. Authorities have advised travelers to exercise extreme vigilance and, if visiting these regions, to stay in close contact with local authorities and keep a detailed itinerary with family or friends.
Serbia: Caution Amid Ongoing Demonstrations
Serbia is facing an uptick in violent demonstrations, particularly in Belgrade and other major cities. As protests related to political and social issues continue, Serbia has warned travelers to avoid large gatherings, as these can quickly escalate into violence. Tourists should monitor local news and be aware of their surroundings, especially in sensitive areas like Syntagma Square and Omonia Square.
While most protests have been relatively peaceful, the potential for unrest remains high, and visitors are urged to follow the advice of local authorities. Serbia’s overall safety rating remains moderate, but the current wave of demonstrations presents an additional challenge for travelers.
Greece: Public Strikes and Demonstrations
Travelers to Greece have been cautioned about frequent demonstrations and strikes, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. These public actions often coincide with significant historical events or labor movements, such as Workers’ Day on May 1st and the Athens Polytechnic uprising commemoration on November 17th. While most of these demonstrations are peaceful, the potential for escalation exists, and they can disrupt transportation and local services.
Visitors are advised to avoid protest sites and check local media regularly to stay updated on the locations of demonstrations. It is also recommended to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay clear of large crowds to avoid potential confrontations.
Japan: Nuclear and Geopolitical Concerns
Japan has updated its travel advisory in light of Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant restrictions and increasing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. While the majority of Japan remains a safe destination, the Fukushima area is still off-limits to travelers due to radiation risks from the 2011 disaster. The Japanese government has urged tourists to comply with local laws and avoid the restricted zones.
Additionally, travelers are advised to stay vigilant regarding the geopolitical situation in East Asia, particularly North Korea’s missile and nuclear tests. These developments could result in sudden escalations, and tourists are encouraged to stay informed about the evolving security situation and follow local guidance.
Switzerland: Petty Crime Concerns in Major Cities
While Switzerland is known for its overall safety and high quality of life, it has seen a rise in petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, particularly in Zurich, Geneva, and Basel. Tourists visiting these major cities should be extra cautious in crowded places, such as airports, train stations, and public transport systems. Thefts often occur in teams, where one person distracts the victim while the other steals their belongings.
Switzerland’s crime rate remains relatively low, but the increase in petty theft highlights the need for travelers to be vigilant, secure their belongings, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
Uzbekistan: Border Region Tensions and Mine Risks
In Uzbekistan, travelers have been cautioned about potential tensions along the country’s borders with Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, especially in mountainous regions. Despite a recent border delimitation agreement, the situation remains volatile, with occasional armed clashes and the presence of landmines along the borders.
In particular, the Afghanistan-Uzbekistan border remains closed following the Taliban’s takeover, but tourists are advised to stay informed of any changes. Uzbekistan’s government has been proactive in clearing landmines, but travelers should exercise extreme caution, avoid unmarked trails, and adhere to local travel advisories.
As Canada issues a new travel advisory urging caution for international tourists, Cyprus has joined Argentina, Panama, Serbia, Greece, Japan, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan in updating their travel alerts in response to rising security concerns, including geopolitical tensions and criminal activity in certain regions.
As Canada issues its new travel advisory for international tourists, travelers must remain informed about evolving security situations across the globe. Countries like Cyprus, Argentina, Panama, Serbia, Greece, Japan, Switzerland, and Uzbekistan have all issued updated alerts to safeguard the safety and well-being of visitors. As travel resumes, it is crucial for tourists to exercise caution, monitor local developments, and follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
