Cuba: With diplomatic relations on the mend, travelers may be planning tourist activities to the island nation. The U.S. State Department released a crime and safety report for Cuba, indicating that tourists have little cause for alarm, as crime rates there are low. Most incidents are nonconfrontational and consist of pickpocketing, purse-snatching, fraud schemes and thefts from unoccupied cars. Road safety, however, remains an issue because of lack of maintenance or proper lighting. Those involved in car accidents may face heavy penalties.
India: Another sexual assault of a tourist has been reported, this time in Gaya. The Japanese woman was lured away from Kolkata by men claiming to be tour guides. They raped her and held her captive at gunpoint for 12 days. Five men were arrested. Sexual assault and violence against women are serious concerns for tourists in India, and women should be vigilant.
Bangladesh: The opposition Bangladesh National Party plans to block intercity roads, railways and waterways throughout the country. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka warns that blockades have the potential for violent confrontations and urges tourists to avoid large gatherings, protests or demonstrations.
Indonesia: The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta announced a possible terrorist threat against U.S.-linked banks and hotels in Surabaya, East Java. Tourists are urged to use caution at these establishments.
Australia: Health officials announced a dengue fever outbreak in the northern part of the country, with at least two cases confirmed in Edmonton. The region’s Dengue Action Response Team cautioned that mosquitoes carrying dengue are usually found in urban areas and that people should use added protection against exposure. Dengue fever causes severe joint and muscle pain, headaches and in some cases, difficulty breathing and excessive vomiting and diarrhea. There is no vaccine.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov.
