Costa Rica: Tourists should be aware of a recent increase in violence in Escazu. Three drive-by shootings reportedly left two Costa Ricans dead and an American seriously injured. The shootings were near the Los Anonos Bridge, near CIMA Hospital and in front of a restaurant on the west side of Paco Plaza. Tourists are advised to use caution in the region.
Chile: Tourists visiting Santiago should be prepared for potential travel disruptions and other disturbances as the city celebrates Day of the Young Combatant (Dia del Joven Combatiente) March 29. (The celebrations commemorate protests against a previous military regime.) The weekend celebrations can escalate into violence such as rock throwing and vehicles or objects set on fire in the streets, particularly at night. The areas of Santiago most affected in the past have been Avenida Libertador Bernardo O’Higgins, Avenida Americo Vespucio, the district near university Pedagogico de Macul and areas around the city limits. Travelers should be aware of potential power outages that could last several days, because in the past vandals have damaged electrical transformers.
Egypt: A German tourist was killed in a shark attack off the coast of al-Qusair, a resort town along the Red Sea. The attack was the first in five years at the popular diving spot. Divers and swimmers should use extreme caution in the area.
China: Because of increasing conflict along the border with Myanmar, the government has restricted travel in many areas in the border region of Yunnan province. Tourists hoping to travel overland may be turned back at checkpoints or be denied entry into certain areas because of increased security concerns. Travelers should check with local authorities and use caution in the area.
Thailand: The government has launched another hotline for tourists. In addition to the 24-hour 1155 Tourist Police line for emergencies, a new hotline, 1111, is available for travelers to make nonemergency complaints about mistreatment or scams from businesses such as hotels or tour operators. Complaints will be relayed to government agencies, state enterprises and other nongovernmental organizations in an effort to resolve disputes.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov.