Published on
September 28, 2025
Italy has sent an urgent travel warning to its citizens for 2025. Several countries, including Vietnam, are experiencing rising natural disasters and safety risks. Vietnam is now on the list alongside the Philippines, Nepal, India, Cambodia, and Portugal due to the ongoing threat of Tropical Storm Bualoi, severe flooding, landslides, and other environmental dangers. These countries are facing greater risks that endanger travelers, leading Italy to alert its nationals about the growing threats in these areas. With unpredictable weather events and other safety issues, the warning highlights the need for careful planning and readiness.
In 2025, the global travel landscape has been dramatically impacted by natural disasters, rising environmental concerns, and political unrest. Vietnam, once considered a relatively safe travel destination, has recently been added to a growing list of countries facing significant risks, prompting Italy to issue an urgent travel advisory for its citizens. Joining Vietnam in this travel warning are the Philippines, Nepal, India, Cambodia, and Portugal, all of which are grappling with a combination of tropical storms, environmental threats, and increasing safety concerns. This report highlights these countries’ travel challenges, emphasizing the growing risks that travelers should be aware of in 2025.
Tropical Storm Bualoi: A Growing Concern for Travelers
Tropical Storm Bualoi, a severe weather system sweeping across Southeast Asia, is causing widespread disruption, particularly in Vietnam and the Philippines. This storm, which is expected to bring torrential rainfall, flooding, and possible landslides, is at the forefront of Italy’s travel advisory. Areas in central and northern Vietnam, including Quang Tri, Ha Tinh, Nghen An, Thanh Hoah, Hanoi, and Da Nang, are all under threat. The government has urged Italian nationals to avoid non-essential travel to these regions, as the storm’s unpredictable path could lead to further complications. The Vietnamese government is taking measures to minimize the storm’s impact, but travelers must exercise caution, follow local authorities’ instructions, and monitor weather updates regularly.
The Philippines, already accustomed to the monsoon season’s effects, is also facing the brunt of Bualoi’s fury, referred to locally as “Opong.” Strong winds and heavy rain are expected to disrupt daily life, particularly in northern Luzon and coastal areas. Italian citizens in the Philippines are advised to remain vigilant and stay indoors when possible, avoiding unnecessary travel during the storm’s peak.
In both countries, flooding and infrastructure damage are likely to impact transportation, leading to delays and potential hazards for travelers. The Italian Embassy in both Vietnam and the Philippines is closely monitoring the situation and updating travelers on necessary precautions. For tourists, it is crucial to plan for potential evacuations and disruptions and to stay in communication with local authorities throughout the duration of the storm.
Rising Natural and Environmental Risks Across the Globe
As climate change intensifies, natural disasters such as storms, floods, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and severe. The Philippines, Nepal, and Vietnam, all located in regions vulnerable to such phenomena, are seeing a marked increase in extreme weather patterns. These countries, along with others like India, Cambodia, and Portugal, are facing environmental challenges that significantly affect travelers’ safety.
The Philippines, an archipelago prone to typhoons, regularly experiences severe weather events between June and November. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of storms such as Tropical Storm Bualoi is a growing concern for travelers. Areas like Luzon, Mindanao, and the Visayas are particularly vulnerable to flooding and infrastructure damage. Additionally, the Philippines’ seismic activity adds to the unpredictability, with the risk of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions compounding the environmental threat.
Similarly, Nepal, nestled in the Himalayan region, is highly susceptible to landslides, flooding, and earthquakes. During the monsoon season, from June to September, the country faces heavy rainfall that often leads to dangerous landslides, especially in rural and mountainous areas. The combination of these natural risks, coupled with ongoing political instability in certain regions, makes travel in Nepal especially perilous. Although Nepal is a top destination for trekkers, it’s essential to consider the environmental dangers, such as rockfalls and avalanches, which can pose life-threatening risks to those venturing into the high-altitude regions.
Vietnam, though a popular travel destination due to its lush landscapes and cultural heritage, is increasingly affected by climate change, making it more vulnerable to tropical storms and flooding. Central and northern Vietnam are frequently impacted by typhoons and heavy rainfall, especially between June and November, causing significant damage and loss of life. The country’s government has been working to improve disaster management strategies, but the sheer unpredictability of weather patterns and the damage from storms like Bualoi still pose substantial risks for travelers.
Other Countries Facing Travel Risks in 2025Philippines: The Persistent Threat of Typhoons and Terrorism
In addition to the immediate threat of Tropical Storm Bualoi, the Philippines remains one of the most politically volatile countries in Southeast Asia. While major cities like Manila remain safe for tourists, areas in the southern region, particularly Mindanao, continue to experience conflict, terrorist activity, and insurgency. Terrorist attacks, including bombings and kidnappings, remain a serious concern, particularly in regions like Sulu and Basilan, which are notorious for abductions by extremist groups. The risk of terrorism in the Philippines, compounded by typhoons and natural disasters, makes it a high-alert destination for travelers in 2025. Italian nationals are strongly advised to avoid traveling to the southern islands and any areas that may be affected by militant activity.
Moreover, the Philippines’ geographical location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” also means that volcanic eruptions and earthquakes can occur without warning. In recent years, the eruption of Mayon Volcano in the Bicol region serves as a reminder of the country’s ongoing seismic risks. As with Vietnam, travelers are urged to exercise extreme caution and stay informed through local news and government advisories.
India: Earthquake and Pollution Hazards
India, a country with diverse landscapes and a rich cultural history, is facing its own set of challenges for travelers in 2025. The ongoing risk of earthquakes, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions like Jammu and Kashmir, makes it a hazardous area for tourists. While the northern state of Ladakh remains a popular destination for trekkers, recent clashes and heightened military tensions along the India-Pakistan border have led to curfews and roadblocks, further complicating travel.
Moreover, India’s high levels of air pollution, particularly in cities like New Delhi, present significant health risks for travelers. The smog levels in New Delhi often exceed the safe limits set by the World Health Organization, causing respiratory problems and making outdoor activities difficult, especially for vulnerable populations. For travelers considering a trip to India, it’s important to take precautions such as wearing anti-pollution masks and limiting time spent in areas with high pollution levels.
India is also no stranger to flooding, especially during the monsoon season, and regions like Kerala, Gujarat, and Mumbai regularly experience severe weather events. In recent years, floods have caused significant property damage and loss of life, highlighting the country’s ongoing vulnerability to climate-related disasters.
Cambodia: Landmines and Border Tensions
Cambodia remains a relatively stable destination in Southeast Asia, yet the country still faces its share of security and environmental risks. One of the most significant dangers in Cambodia is the presence of unexploded ordnance (UXO) and landmines, which continue to affect rural and border regions. The Cambodian government has made great strides in demining efforts, but visitors are still advised to avoid remote areas, particularly in provinces like Ratanakiri, Mondulkiri, and Kratie.
The Cambodian border with Thailand has also been a point of tension, with occasional flare-ups of violence in the region. Although the situation has improved in recent years, travelers are advised to avoid the areas near the Thai-Cambodia border, particularly in provinces such as Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey. Travel to these regions may be subject to restrictions, and the risk of civil unrest remains a concern.
Portugal: Forest Fires and Weather Risks
Portugal, while not experiencing the same intensity of tropical storms as Southeast Asia, is still facing significant environmental risks in 2025. The country is prone to forest fires, particularly during the dry summer months. In recent years, Portugal has witnessed devastating wildfires that have caused loss of life and destruction of property. Travelers visiting Portugal are urged to avoid wooded areas, especially during the peak fire season, and should remain vigilant during high-risk periods.
Portugal is also experiencing extreme weather conditions due to the effects of climate change. The Azores archipelago, which is particularly vulnerable to tropical storms, is currently bracing for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Gabrielle. The storm, expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds, poses a risk to travelers on the islands, making travel in this region hazardous. Visitors to Portugal are advised to follow local authorities’ instructions and stay updated on weather warnings.
The travel risks in 2025 have reached a critical point for many popular destinations worldwide, with countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, Nepal, India, Cambodia, and Portugal all facing significant threats from natural disasters, political unrest, and environmental hazards. Italy’s travel advisory for these regions underscores the importance of cautious, responsible travel.
Italy has issued an urgent travel advisory for 2025, with Vietnam joining the Philippines, Nepal, India, Cambodia, and Portugal due to escalating risks from Tropical Storm Bualoi, severe flooding, landslides, and other natural disasters posing significant threats to travelers’ safety.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed through local and international news, follow the advice of local authorities, and prepare adequately for the risks associated with these destinations. While these countries offer rich cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes, the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, along with political and safety concerns, mean that the safety of travelers must always come first.
