Bahrain
With the Grand Prix over, the ruling monarchy still faces the task of stabilizing the country. Clashes between anti-government protesters and police broke out April 22 just hours before the trademark race was to begin. The race was canceled last year due to tensions in the country but went ahead as planned this time. The 100,000 race visitors were greeted with scenes of tear gas and bloodshed in the Sunni-ruled, Shiite-majority country. An ongoing travel alert from the U.S. State Department warns citizens of potential unrest in the country.
China
Chongqing municipal police have vowed to better protect foreigners after the recent suspected homicide of a Briton. Officials claim that outside of the recent scandal, there have been no violent crimes against foreigners in Chongqing since 2010. The megacity is a hub of business, academics and tourism and is plagued by many of the same crimes that other large cities face: scams and theft. Officials also add that most of these nonviolent crimes occur in crowded tourist sites. The recent death, however, is a stark reminder that regardless of a city’s relatively peaceful history, travelers should remain vigilant at all times.
Colombia
The government was preparing for the eruption of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano, which has become increasingly active. The Interior Ministry ordered the fire departments of 19 municipalities to be ready for an eruption, including possible evacuations. Nevado del Ruiz is a notoriously deadly volcano, and the images of escaping gas and steam are reminiscent of the deadly 1985 eruption that killed 25,000 people. The volcano is in Los Nevados National Natural Park, a popular tourist destination.
Japan
Passengers who complain of untimely security delays at American airports take notice: International airports in Japan soon will begin random body searches and baggage checks. The Kyodo news agency reported that about 10 percent of passengers will be selected for the new procedures. In line with other countries that use similar security measures, the transportation ministry is taking these steps to protect against explosives and other harmful weapons that metal detectors cannot pick up.
Lebanon
In the last few months, bombings have rocked the majority-Muslim city of Tyre, targeting nightclubs, shops and restaurants that serve alcohol. The latest bomb went off in the wee hours Monday, injuring five and damaging the building that housed the targeted restaurant. Most Tyre residents are Shiite Muslims, but members of Lebanon’s Christian and Sunni Muslim communities also call the city home, making it a scene of differing ideologies. Travelers are advised to use caution when visiting venues serving alcohol.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov
