VENEZUELA
A general strike against President Hugo Chavez that began Dec. 2 has produced severe shortages of goods and services, including fuel supplies, and has caused conflict and violence.
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HONG KONG
The third incident in as many weeks of birds succumbing to avian flu has prompted authorities to act fast to prevent a repeat of the 1997 epidemic that killed six people. The incidents occurred in Kowloon and Lantau Island. The risk to visitors is low.
JORDAN
The U.S. State Department has lifted its authorization of voluntary departure for dependents and non-emergency personnel, which suggests that the dangers to Americans have diminished. It still warns travelers, however, to consider the risks of travel here.
SOLOMON ISLANDS
An ongoing political, security and economic crisis intensified in the past month with an assassination attempt on a special assistant to the prime minister, an attack on the police ministry in Honiara by 50 “disgruntled special constables” and fighting on Guadalcanal’s Weather Coast where police are trying to apprehend the leader of a rebel group. Most of these violent incidents have occurred because police and militia groups have sought money before participating in police operations. In some cases the government has agreed to their demands. Travel to islands other than Malaita and Guadalcanal has been generally safe.