Home » Latest Travel News of Canada » Italy Joins Spain, Romania, Russia, and Belarus in a Global Travel Advisory Issued by Canada: What All Travellers NEED to Know NOW to Stay Safe and Avoid Danger!

Published on
November 18, 2025

Travel advisory

In a shocking development, Italy has joined Spain, Romania, Russia, and Belarus in a global travel advisory issued by Canada. This unprecedented move has sent shockwaves through the travel community, as each of these countries faces escalating safety concerns. The Canadian government is urging all travellers to be extra cautious when visiting these destinations, with heightened risks ranging from political instability to potential terrorism. What every traveller NEEDS to know NOW is crucial for ensuring their safety abroad. With Italy, Spain, Romania, Russia, and Belarus now part of this global warning, it’s essential to understand the threats and take appropriate precautions.

Whether you’re planning a holiday, business trip, or any other travel, avoiding danger is a top priority. Stay informed, stay alert, and ensure your travel plans are safe. Don’t let unexpected risks jeopardise your journey.

Italy: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Italy is a popular tourist destination known for its rich culture, historical landmarks, and delicious cuisine. However, Canada’s travel advisory for Italy currently recommends that Canadians “exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting. This is because of potential security threats, such as terrorist attacks or civil unrest, especially in busy public spaces or tourist hubs.

Italy is part of the Schengen Area, which means Canadians can visit without a visa for up to 90 days. However, the Canadian government urges travellers to monitor local news and stay alert, especially in places like Rome, Milan, and Venice, where large crowds can become a target for petty crime or more serious security threats.

It is also important to stay updated on any political protests or gatherings. These situations can quickly escalate and become violent, making it essential to avoid these areas if you are in the country. Keeping your travel insurance up to date, and registering with the Canadian government’s travel service, will ensure you have support if anything goes wrong.

Spain: Exercise a High Degree of Caution

Similar to Italy, Spain is also marked with the “high degree of caution” advisory by the Canadian government. Spain, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and world-class cities like Barcelona and Madrid, attracts millions of tourists each year. However, it’s not without its risks.

While Spain is generally safe for tourists, the Canadian government warns travellers to stay vigilant due to potential security risks. This caution is particularly relevant in tourist-heavy areas, public transport, and large events. Like in Italy, there have been concerns about possible terrorist threats in these crowded environments, where individuals might be more vulnerable.

Canadians should also be aware of common issues like pickpocketing and scams, especially in busy tourist areas. As with Italy, it’s essential to stay informed of any political protests, as these can quickly turn dangerous. Ensuring that your travel documents are in order and having a clear understanding of local emergency numbers will provide peace of mind.

Romania: Take Normal Security Precautions

Romania presents a much lower risk to travellers compared to Italy or Spain. The Canadian government advises Canadians to “take normal security precautions” when travelling to Romania. This is the lowest advisory level, meaning the country is generally safe, but basic safety precautions should still be followed.

Romania is known for its picturesque landscapes, medieval castles, and charming cities like Bucharest and Brasov. Violent crime is rare, but travellers should still be cautious of petty crimes such as pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations, markets, and public transport. The advisory highlights that pickpockets can often target unsuspecting tourists in these places.

It’s also wise to avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings in busy places. Romania is a safe country for travel, but it’s always important to use common sense. As with any destination, travellers should have good travel insurance and keep an eye on any updates or changes in the local safety situation.

Russia: Avoid All Travel

The Canadian government has issued the highest advisory rather warning for Russia, advising all Canadians to “avoid all travel” to the country. This advisory is in place due to the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, the risk of terrorism, and the uncertain security situation in the country.

Travellers are advised to reconsider any travel plans to Russia. The Canadian government cites the ongoing war and the potential for further escalation, which can directly affect the safety of foreigners in the country. With the risk of political instability and violence, it is not advisable to visit Russia under the current conditions.

If you are already in Russia, it is recommended that you leave the country as soon as it is safe to do so. The Canadian government also advises against any non-essential travel and strongly warns about the limited ability of Canadian consular services to assist Canadians in Russia during these uncertain times. It’s important to take these warnings seriously and seek alternative destinations if possible.

Belarus: Avoid All Travel

Like Russia, Belarus has been marked with the highest risk level, “avoid all travel,” by the Canadian government. This is due to several factors, including political repression, arbitrary enforcement of laws, and the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Belarus has faced increasing international scrutiny for its authoritarian government, which has led to concerns about the safety of foreigners in the country. The Canadian government specifically warns about the high risk of arbitrary detention, limited access to legal assistance, and the general political instability in the region.

If you are planning to travel to Belarus, it is strongly advised that you reconsider your plans. The risk of encountering trouble with local authorities is high, and the ability for Canadian consular officials to assist you is extremely limited. The Canadian government has no embassy in Belarus, making it even harder to receive assistance if you run into difficulties.

If you are already in Belarus, the safest option is to leave as soon as possible. The government also advises against non-essential travel and recommends monitoring the situation closely.

What Should You Do?

Travelling to any of the countries mentioned requires extra caution. Here’s a quick checklist of what you can do to stay safe:

  • Stay informed: Always check the latest travel advisories from official government sources like the Canadian government’s website. Situations can change quickly, and you want to ensure you are aware of any risks before you travel.
  • Travel insurance: Make sure your travel insurance covers security-related incidents, including evacuation if necessary. This will give you peace of mind if something goes wrong during your trip.
  • Stay connected: Register with the Canadian government’s “Registration of Canadians Abroad” program. This allows consular officials to contact you in case of an emergency.
  • Follow local advice: Always listen to local authorities, especially if there are warnings about large gatherings, protests, or other safety concerns. They have the most up-to-date information.
  • Stay vigilant: Whether you’re in Italy, Spain, Romania, Russia, or Belarus, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid risky areas, especially at night, and always keep your personal belongings secure.

Conclusion

Travelling is an exciting experience, but it comes with its own set of risks. The current travel advisories for Italy, Spain, Romania, Russia, and Belarus highlight the importance of staying informed and vigilant. While countries like Italy and Spain are relatively safe but carry some risks, Russia and Belarus pose far greater dangers. With the highest advisories in place, it’s clear that these are countries Canadians should avoid for the time being. By keeping these travel tips in mind and taking necessary precautions, you can ensure your safety while enjoying the beauty and culture these countries have to offer.

If you are planning to travel, always check the latest government advisories and ensure that your trip is as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Source: Government of Canada