LEGEND TRAVEL NEWS ALERT 30 APR 2019 APRIL 30, 2019

AMERICAS

Regional

Tomorrow, travelers in major urban centers should plan journeys bypassing rallies associated with International Labor Day. Such events are likely to be well attended and are liable to result in local travel disruption.

Argentina

Today, travelers in urban centers should avoid protests and expect disruption during a nationwide strike by the Argentine Workers’ Union (CTA) against labor reforms. In Buenos Aires, protesters will march at 12:00 PM local time from Avenida Belgrano to Plaza de Mayo. Aviation unions have declared their support for the industrial action, prompting various airlines to cancel flights. Travelers should reconfirm schedules before setting out.

Venezuela

Today, travelers in Venezuela should stand fast amid reported troop movements in and around Caracas. This follows additional reports that Juan Guaido, President of the National Assembly, has taken control of some military units in Caracas. Travelers should minimize movement, exercise caution, and monitor developments. Disruption to some social media sites should also be expected.

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

Regional

Journeys to Tanzania’s Lindi, Mtwara and Ruvuma regions, as well as Mozambique’s northern Cabo Delgado province, can resume with precautions following the passage of former Tropical Cyclone Kenneth. Travel to Macomia, Mocimboa da Praia, Muidumbe, Nangade, Palma, and Quissanga require enhanced precautions due to the impact of the cyclone and the ongoing threat of militancy. Further heavy rain and consequent flooding are forecast and are liable to cause further disruption.

Burkina Faso

Non-essential travel to northern and eastern regions should be deferred following recent incidents of militant and communal violence. In Sahel region, suspected Islamist militants targeted a church in Silgadji on April 28, killing six people. On April 19, seven people were killed during an attack in Djika village in Arbinda. In CentreEst region, an attack on April 26 in Maytagou resulted in six fatalities. Meanwhile, a curfew from 12:00 AM to 5:00 AM local time remains in place through May 12 in Est region.

Chad

An increase in the number of measles cases has been reported. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in under-vaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. Measles can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, the elderly or pregnant women are infected. All travelers should ensure that they are fully immunized against measles.

The Nigeria-based extremist Boko Haram group killed four soldiers and injured two others in an attack on April 23 on Tetewa Island. Six militants were also killed in the incident. The attack underlines the need to avoid non-essential travel to areas of Lac located west of Bol.

Congo

Chikungunya activity has been reported in some regions. Chikungunya can cause severe illness, particularly in newborn babies, older adults, and people with underlying health issues. There is no specific treatment and no vaccine. Travelers should prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.

Guinea

An increase in measles activity has been recorded. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in under-vaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. Measles can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, the elderly or pregnant women are infected. All travelers should ensure that they are fully immunized against measles.

Kenya

An outbreak of cholera has been reported in several counties. Cholera spreads via contaminated food and water. Symptoms include vomiting and profuse, watery diarrhea which can lead to severe dehydration. Travelers staying in quality accommodations with access to safe food and water are at low risk. Travelers should ensure food and water are safe for consumption and consider vaccination if likely to encounter unsanitary conditions.

Today, travelers in Nairobi should avoid a planned protest over economic grievances as a precaution. Participants will gather at 10:00 AM local time at Uhuru Park. The event may result in traffic disruption in the area. Travelers should reconfirm the status of routes if planning to conduct journeys in the area.

Lebanon

Today, travelers in Beirut should anticipate disruption and plan journeys avoiding protests by retired military and security officers. Demonstrations are scheduled to take place at Riad el Solh at 5:30 AM local time and at Sanayeh Park at 6:00 AM local time. Related small-scale demonstrations are likely in other locations. Travelers should avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.

Libya

A case of locally-acquired malaria has been reported in Tripoli, the first case to be reported from Libya in over 30 years. Malaria is spread through mosquito bites and can be fatal unless promptly treated. Travelers should seek medical advice prior to travel for an individual recommendation on preventive medication and should avoid mosquito bites. If symptoms develop, travelers should seek prompt medical attention and inform doctors that they may have traveled to an area with malaria.

Oman

Today through May 31, passengers of Oman Air should reconfirm their travel plans after the airline announced that it had canceled more than 570 flights. The move follows the Public Authority for Civil Aviation’s decision to ground the Omani Boeing 737 MAX fleet after two aircraft crashes in which hundreds of people were killed. The affected destinations include Bahrain, India, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates.

South Africa

Today, travelers in Bloemfontein should avoid an ongoing march to City Hall in the Central Business District. The Economic Freedom Fighters party has organized the rally to demand better service delivery and improved job security. Traffic disruption and an increased police presence can be expected along the march route. Travelers in and around Durban should avoid ongoing and disruptive protests in the Central Business District (CBD) and on the N3 Road. Traffic lanes into the city on the N3 are currently blocked by municipal rubbish trucks, whilst other refuse collectors have established blockades outside City Hall in Durban. Meanwhile, supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party have been marching from Botha Park on Berea Road to the Provincial Police Headquarters on Braam Fischer Road in the CBD since 10:00 AM local time.

Tanzania

Health authorities have declared an outbreak of dengue fever in Tanzania. The disease is spread by mosquitoes and is present in both rural and urban areas. Dengue can cause a range of symptoms and has no particular treatment. Some people, especially those who have been infected before, get a more severe form that can lead to fatal complications. Although a vaccine is available in several locations, it is only recommended for people who have been infected with dengue in the past and are living or traveling in areas with high levels of dengue transmission. Travelers should prevent infection by avoiding mosquito bites.

Travelers in northern regions should plan journeys accounting for potential disruption caused by recent heavy rainfall and flooding. The regions that have been affected are Arusha, Geita, Kagera, Kilimanjaro, Manyara, Mara, Mwanza, Shinyanga, and Simiyu. The Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TAM) has forecast further heavy rainfall and thunderstorms for these regions. Significant congestion was reported in parts of Arusha due to flooded roads. No disruption has thus far been reported at Kilimanjaro International (JRO) and Arusha (ARK) airports.

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

Regional

Travelers in China should expect intermittent disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the ongoing monsoon season, which typically lasts through October. Flooding is common in central, western and southern parts of the country, particularly the Yangtze River Basin. Southern and eastern coastal areas are also prone to heavy rainfall and associated disruption. Most recently, around 200 flights were canceled at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) on April 27. In addition to flights, short-notice disruption to road and rail travel is also possible through October.

Bangladesh

Today, travelers in Dhaka should avoid a protest at 4:00 PM local time at the Shahbagh Intersection. The opposition Jatiya Oikya Front has organized the gathering to denounce an increase in sexual assaults.

Indonesia

The World Health Organization has declared Indonesia a polio re-infected or “outbreak” country after cases were detected in Papua province. Indonesian authorities require all travelers into and out of Papua and West Papua provinces to have proof of having received a polio vaccination within the previous 12 months. Authorities of some other countries require proof of polio vaccination if entering from Indonesia. Polio is a contagious viral illness that can cause paralysis and death. It is spread through contaminated food or water, or directly from an infected person. To prevent polio infection, all travelers to Indonesia are recommended to be up to date with their polio vaccination.

Japan

A significant increase in measles cases has been reported in some parts of the country, including Tokyo. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in undervaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. Measles can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, the elderly or pregnant women are infected. All travelers should ensure that they are fully immunized against measles.

Kyrgyzstan

Travelers in Bishkek should anticipate and avoid further protests against a uranium development project in Ton district amid concerns over its environmental impact. A local environmental group has called on supporters to gather at Ala-Too Square at 11:00 AM local time today. Participants will then march along Orozbekov Street towards the Government House on Old Square. The organizers expect a turnout of up to 5,000. A previous protest in Bishkek on April 26 drew around 200 participants and passed off peacefully.

Malaysia

Tomorrow, travelers in Kuala Lumpur should plan journeys avoiding a Labor Day rally. Participants will march at 10:30 AM local time from Maju Junction to Medan Pasar to demand an increase in minimum wage, among other things. Organizers expect around 1,000 people to participate in the rally, which is likely to pass off peacefully.

New Zealand

Travelers in major cities, including Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch, should expect heightened security during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which begins on Monday, May 6. Security will be particularly tight around mosques, with armed police officers conducting bag checks. Travelers should follow all official directives.

Philippines

Yesterday, Cebu Pacific Airlines (5J) announced the cancellation of 58 round-trip flights through Friday, May 10. Passengers ticketed on a canceled flight will have the option to rebook their flights for travel within 30 days from the original departure date, reroute their flights (subject to availability) or receive a full refund. Passengers on canceled flights will also receive one round-trip travel voucher for use on future flights. Passengers with ticketed itineraries on Cebu Pacific Airlines should reconfirm the status of their flights if traveling on or before Friday, May 10.

South Korea

An increase in cases of measles have been reported from several parts of the country. Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads from person-to-person via infected droplets. Outbreaks occur frequently in undervaccinated populations. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and a characteristic rash. The illness can result in serious complications, particularly when very young children, elderly people or pregnant women are infected. All travelers should ensure they are fully immunized against measles.

Sri Lanka

Heightened security measures, including a State of Emergency to facilitate counter-terrorism operations, remain in place across the country following a series of fatal bombings on April 21. Meanwhile, a nationwide overnight curfew has been lifted in all but three areas: Kalmunai, Sammanthurai, and Chavalakade. Travelers in Sri Lanka should remain vigilant and exercise heightened situational awareness as authorities have warned that militants may be planning more attacks.

EUROPE

Regional

Passengers of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) should continue to anticipate disruption and reconfirm flights during an ongoing open-ended strike by pilots in Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. Further cancellations are likely while the work stoppage persists. Since the walkout began on April 26, the carrier has canceled around 70% of its flights, including more than 1,200 services scheduled for today, affecting more than 280,000 passengers. The strike is linked to a dispute over a collective bargaining agreement, wages, and working hours.

Tomorrow, travelers in major urban centers across the region should plan routes bypassing annual Labor Day gatherings. Travelers should exercise particular caution in France, Italy, Germany and Greece, where local unrest is possible due to historical precedent or because protests will be linked to ongoing socio-economic movements. Related demonstrations in other countries, such as the UK, are likely to pass off peacefully, causing only local traffic disruption. Travelers in Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Ukraine should anticipate disruption around Labor Day celebratory gatherings and plan journeys bypassing them as a precaution. Labor Day is a public holiday, and businesses and government offices are likely to be closed.

Travelers in affected locations should confirm the status of routes before setting out.

Scotland

Today, passengers transiting Glasgow Airport (GLA) should reconfirm flights and expect delays after the facility reopened following a security alert on board an Easyjet flight. The incident was linked to a suspicious package. Due to the temporary closure, flights may be delayed as authorities work to reposition aircraft and clear passenger backlogs.

NOTEWORTHY EVENTS

April 30
Congo (DRC): Education Day
Cyprus: Orthodox Easter Tuesday
(Banks Only)
Japan: Coronation Day Holiday
Moldova: Orthodox Easter
Monday Holiday
Romania: Public Holiday
Sint Maarten: Carnival Day
Vietnam: Liberation Day/
Reunification Day

May 1
May Day
Eritrea: International Workers’ Day
Japan: Coronation Day
Latvia: Constituent Assembly
Convocation Day
Marshall Islands: Constitution Day
Mali: Workers’ Day
Namibia: Workers’ Day
Nepal: Majdoor Divas
Tanzania: Workers’ Day
United States: Yom HaShoah
Zimbabwe: Workers’ Day
Aruba, Bangladesh, Burkina
Faso, Burundi, Benin, Botswana,
Central African Republic, Congo,
Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Cabo
Verde, Gabon, Grenada, Gambia,
Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Cambodia,
Comoros, Lebanon, Madagascar,
Martinique, Mauritius, Niger,
Reunion, Serbia, Rwanda,
Seychelles, Slovakia,, Senegal,
Suriname, Sao Tome and Principe,
Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine,
Uganda, Kosovo, Mayotte
Zambia: Labor Day

May 2
Australia, Canada, Israel, United
Kingdom: Yom HaShoah
Bosnia & Herzegovina: Labor Day
(Day 2)
Bhutan: Birth Anniversary of Third
Druk Gyalpo
China: Labor Day Holiday
Spain: Day of Madrid
Japan: Coronation Day Holiday
Montenegro: Labour Day/May
Day Holiday
Poland: Day of the Flag
Serbia: Labor Holiday (Second
Day)
Russia: Spring and Labor Day
Holiday
Slovenia: Labor Day Holiday

May 3
China: Labor Day Holiday
Japan: Constitution Memorial Day
Poland: Constitution Day
Russia: Spring and Labor Day
Holiday
El Salvador: Cross Day

May 4
Austria: Saint Florian’s Day
China: Youth Day
Japan: Greenery Day
Kazakhstan: Special Working Day
Latvia: Independence Restoration
Day
Namibia: Cassinga Day
Vietnam: Working
Day for Liberation Day Holiday

May 5
Denmark: Liberation Day
Spain, Lithuania, Romania:
Mothers’ Day
Ethiopia: Freedom Day
Guyana: Arrival Day
Japan: Children’s Day
Kyrgyzstan: Constitution Day of
the Kyrgyz Republic
South Korea: Children’s Day
Mexico: Battle of Puebla
Netherlands: Liberation Day
Palau: Senior Citizens Day
United States: Cinco de Mayo

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