Home » Australia Travel News » Bolivia Joins Thailand, Cameroon, El Salvador, United Kingdom, France, Bahrain And More As Australia Issues New Travel Advisory Amid Heightened Political Instability
Published on
October 18, 2025
Bolivia is one of the newest additions to the list of countries for Australia’s latest travel advisory. Australia has provided this advisory due to the recent heightening of political instability throughout the world. Bolivia has not only had to contend with civil unrest, but it also has ‘election-related unrest’ (as it is currently the election season). Furthermore, Bolivian political tensions generally provide a dangerous backdrop. Other countries on the list, including Thailand, Cameroon, El Salvador, the United Kingdom, France, and Bahrain, have provided conflicting civil unrest, terrorist threats, and armed conflicts that render the countries and citizens of the world susceptible to dangerous political climates. Overall, Australia and the countries on the list are recognizing the dangerous political tensions that are continuing to rise throughout the world.
Australia’s latest travel advisory highlights heightened concerns across several countries, urging travelers to exercise increased caution. These advisories reflect the volatile nature of political tensions, security risks, and civil unrest in multiple regions. Affected nations include Bolivia, Thailand, Cameroon, El Salvador, the United Kingdom, France, Bahrain, and more. In this article, we delve into the specific details of the advisory for each of these countries, offering travelers a comprehensive understanding of the safety measures and recommendations.
Bolivia: Political Uncertainty and Election Disruptions
Bolivia is currently undergoing political uncertainty, especially with the upcoming second-round general elections scheduled for 19 October. During this time, the Australian government has advised citizens to exercise a high degree of caution. Key points of concern include restrictions on public and private transportation, particularly on election day, when there will be no public transport and private transport will be restricted. This will also include transport to and from airports, making travel especially challenging.
In addition, large gatherings will be prohibited from 17 to 20 October, as authorities attempt to curb potential unrest related to the elections. Bolivia has long experienced political and civil tensions, and events can often escalate unpredictably. Large-scale political demonstrations, roadblocks, and strikes are common in the lead-up to such events. It is advisable for travelers to avoid areas with significant political activity, as protests can turn violent, leading to disruptions.
Travelers are also urged to stay clear of areas in the Chapare region, where drug trafficking remains a significant issue. Violent crime is also associated with these areas, so extra caution is advised when visiting Bolivia.
Thailand: Ongoing Security Concerns and Border Instability
Thailand remains a country under ongoing security risks, with the Australian government continuing to issue a high degree of caution for travelers. The primary risks involve terrorism, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Bangkok and Phuket, where terrorist attacks have been a recurring concern. Travelers are also advised to be aware of the heightened risks in southern provinces near the Thailand-Malaysia border, including Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, where insurgent activities persist, including low-level terrorism.
In addition to terrorism concerns, armed conflict between Thai and Cambodian forces has raised significant alarm near the Thailand-Cambodia border. The Australian advisory highlights the dangers within 50 kilometers of the border, including provinces like Sa Kaeo, Buriram, Si Saket, Surin, and Ubon Ratchathani. Despite a ceasefire agreement, the situation remains unpredictable, with military strikes and the potential presence of landmines posing significant hazards.
Cameroon: Election Results and Ongoing Civil Unrest
Cameroon is experiencing political tension following the presidential elections held on 12 October. The results of the elections are expected to be announced on or before 26 October, which could trigger significant unrest and political instability. The Australian government has raised its alert for Cameroon, advising travelers to exercise a high degree of caution, especially in areas where political rallies or protests are expected to occur.
In the lead-up to the election result announcements, crowded areas near government buildings and electoral offices should be avoided, as protests could escalate into violence. Cameroon faces violent crime risks in several regions, particularly in the Far North, Northwest, and Southwest regions, where the threat of kidnapping and armed robbery remains high. Civil unrest and violent crime are persistent risks in these areas, making it essential for travelers to stay informed and avoid high-risk regions.
The North, Adamaoua, and Far North regions, particularly near borders with Central African Republic, Chad, and Nigeria, are considered dangerous due to terrorism, violent crime, and kidnapping threats. Travelers are strongly advised to reconsider their need to travel to these areas and engage professional security services if necessary.
El Salvador: Violent Crime and Ongoing Emergency Measures
The Australian government has issued a high degree of caution for travelers visiting El Salvador, primarily due to violent crime. Although the government’s State of Exception (graduated emergency measures) has reduced the frequency of gang-related violence, the risk still exists, particularly after dark. Travelers are warned that violent crime, including gang violence, remains a threat across the country.
Despite improved safety in some areas, the risk remains higher at night, especially for those traveling alone or on isolated roads. Travelers are advised to avoid traveling on highways outside San Salvador and to ensure accommodation security. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is prevalent in tourist areas, and caution should be exercised in these spaces.
The country also experiences frequent weather-related events due to the ongoing hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Landslides, mudslides, and flooding can disrupt travel, so travelers should stay updated on weather warnings and know the locations of nearby shelters.
United Kingdom: Terrorism Threat and Public Safety Concerns
The United Kingdom continues to be a subject of concern for Australian travelers due to the terrorism threat, which remains at the ‘substantial’ level. This indicates that an attack is considered likely, especially in public spaces, including tourist hubs and transportation networks. Notable incidents have occurred in recent years, contributing to an ongoing vigilance across the nation.
Travelers should be cautious in crowded areas, particularly during protests, which have the potential to escalate into violence. The terrorism threat is not confined to any one region, and all visitors are urged to remain alert, especially in places with heavy foot traffic like shopping malls, museums, sporting events, and festivals. In addition to the threat of terrorism, violent crimes, including muggings and knife crime, continue to affect large cities like London.
The UK government has issued repeated warnings, urging visitors to be vigilant, particularly when in crowded or tourist-heavy areas. Following official warnings and the advice of local authorities is critical for ensuring safety.
France: Heightened Security and Strike
In France, the terrorism threat remains one of the highest in Europe, and the government has issued high-level security measures nationwide. Tourist areas, public transport hubs, and cultural events have been identified as potential targets. Travelers should stay vigilant in locations like museums, landmarks, shopping centers, and festivals, where terrorist attacks could occur with little warning.
Moreover, strikes and demonstrations are frequent in France and can lead to significant disruptions in services, especially public transport. These protests can often turn violent, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and the police. Visitors are urged to avoid participating in or coming near protest sites, particularly when police activity is high.
Crime, such as violent robberies and muggings, can also occur, especially in Paris. Travelers should take extra precautions to safeguard their belongings and avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas. Spiking incidents, where drinks are drugged or tampered with, have been reported, so be cautious with beverages in public spaces.
Bahrain: Regional Instability and Terrorism Risks
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Middle East, remains on Australia’s travel advisory due to terrorism and civil unrest risks. While there are no specific widespread incidents, the regional security situation can deteriorate rapidly, leading to airspace closures, flight cancellations, and other disruptions.
The Australian government advises travelers to stay alert, particularly in public spaces, as terrorists may target tourist spots or locations frequented by foreigners. The Middle East has witnessed ongoing conflicts, and Bahrain’s proximity to such areas makes it vulnerable to spillover effects. Visitors are advised to follow official warnings and take extra precautions, particularly during periods of political or regional tension.
As Australia updates its travel advice regarding political unrest in various countries, Bolivia is added to Thailand, Cameroon, El-Salvador, United Kingdom, France, Bahrain, etc. This travel advisory recommends caution due to civil unrest, tensions with upcoming elections, and general security concerns in these countries.
Australia’s new travel advisory sheds light on the increasing global security challenges and the growing need for travelers to exercise heightened caution when visiting various regions. With political instability, civil unrest, and the unpredictable nature of global security threats, travelers are urged to stay informed, monitor local media, and adhere to official guidelines to ensure their safety while abroad.
