Ivory Coast
The U.S. State Department issued a travel warning citing the potential for civil unrest because of demonstrations that have been going on for several months. Although the situation has recently stabilized, areas outside of Abidjan, the economic capital, are especially unsafe for travelers. Assault and robbery are common on the roads, and travelers should avoid moving about after dark.
Japan
Nearly 10 months after the earthquake and tsunami that devastated Japan and heavily damaged the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear power plant, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda announced that the plant has been stabilized. The government acknowledged, however, that it will take decades to dismantle the plant. And some crop fields have tested above normal for radiation.
Korean Peninsula
The death of North Korea’s enigmatic leader, Kim Jong Il, leaves his youngest son, Kim Jong Un, leading the country, reportedly in partnership with its military. The South Korean government has put its military on high alert and instructed citizens to go on with their normal lives. The situation remains unstable.
Mexico
Tourism officials in Tapachula installed a clock to count down to Dec. 21, 2012, the date that the Mayan calendar “runs out,” which some believe indicates the day the world is supposed to end. Nearby Izapa is rich with archaeological treasures. Tourism officials hope that interest in the Mayan calendar — which some experts believe marks the beginning of a new Mayan “cycle,” rather than the end of the world — will increase tourism to the town, state and country at a time when Mexico’s tourist industry has suffered.
Philippines
Flash floods in the southern Philippines killed at least 500 people and left thousands stranded. Washi, the tropical storm that set off the floods, hit the region Dec. 16. The storm was the 19th to hit the country this year. The region’s cyclone season runs from November through April. Travelers should consult local news outlets before leaving for the area, and should bring a preparedness kit including bottled water, nonperishable food items and flashlights.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov.
