Canada
Quebec’s government has moved to end the 14-week mass student strike that has sometimes turned violent. The protests center on fee hikes deemed unfair by students. A Montreal subway had to be closed May 10 when protesters set off smoke bombs during morning rush hour. Provincial ministers fear that the unrest will damage the economy, particularly by deterring tourism, which is especially important in Montreal and Quebec City.
Costa Rica
Volcanologists are warning that an eruption at Turrialba volcano is imminent. The yellow threat level means an eruption could occur in days, weeks or a few months. Eruptions of ash and higher emissions of sulfur dioxide have stoked fears that Turrialba is ready to blow. The volcano has three craters at its summit that have been popular with visitors but now are shut off to hikers.
Eritrea
The U.S. State Department announced that it is suspending all consular and diplomatic services at its embassy in Asmara, Eritrea’s capital, and will now provide only emergency services for Americans. Ties between the countries have deteriorated due to what Eritrea views as the U.S. backing of Ethiopia’s recent military strike within Eritrean territory. Citizens traveling to or residing in Eritrea are advised to register with the embassy online for any emergency assistance that may be required.
Indonesia
Jakarta police are prepared to deploy 4,000 police officers for the Lady Gaga concert June 3. The Islamic Defenders Front, a hard-line traditionalist group known as the FPI, said it bought 150 tickets to the concert so its members could disrupt the concert. This month, the FPI stormed a cultural center where Canadian writer and liberal Muslim activist Irshad Manji was holding a book launch. The group threatened violence if the proceedings did not stop immediately. But the book launch pales in comparison to the Gaga concert, which is set to host 52,000 fans in Bung Karno Stadium. Visitors attending the concert should remain cautious and alert.
Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning due to the ongoing threat of terrorism in Saudi Arabia. The State Department warns that terrorist groups may target Western interests and facilities where Westerners congregate, such as hostels, hotels and shopping centers. Security measures have increased throughout the country since the last attack against foreigners in 2007, but the threat of terrorism remains real. Americans are advised to carefully select hotels or housing compounds that match their security concerns and interests before departing for the country.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov
