LEGEND TRAVEL NEWS ALERT 2 APR 2019 APRIL 2, 2019

AMERICAS

Chile

Tomorrow, travelers in Santiago, Temuco, Puerto Aysen, and Valparaiso should avoid demonstrations by Mapuche activists and supporters due to the risk of unrest. Demonstrators plan to gather in each city to demand the right to self-determination for the indigenous Mapuche people. Previous such demonstrations have resulted in local disturbances; security forces are liable to use tough crowd-control measures, posing incidental risks to anyone in the vicinity.

Nicaragua

Today and tomorrow, travelers in Nicaragua should exercise caution and avoid antigovernment demonstrations due to a credible risk of unrest. The opposition Blue and White National Unity (UNAB) coalition have called for nationwide demonstrations from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM local time today. Protests involving the use of honking vehicles to disrupt traffic will be held tomorrow. The group is protesting the continued detention of anti-government activists.

Venezuela

All travel to Venezuela should be deferred in the coming days, while travelers in country should minimize non-essential movement amid an ongoing political crisis. Sporadic power outages and shortages of food, water and fuel have exacerbated the situation, causing increased unrest in Caracas and other urban centers. Juan Guaido, the National Assembly-recognized interim President, has called for nationwide demonstrations on Saturday, April 6 to demand the removal of President Nicolas Maduro. Travelers should continue to avoid all political gatherings due to a credible risk of unrest.

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

Regional

Today, the Qalandiya Checkpoint between the West Bank and Israel has been temporarily closed due to an outbreak of unrest. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) clashed with Palestinian youths in the West Bank following the funeral of a Palestinian from the Qalandiya Refugee Camp, who was shot dead yesterday. The use of live ammunition has been reported. Travelers should avoid the checkpoint until further notice and exercise caution in the surrounding area.

Algeria

Travelers in Algeria should be prepared to stand fast for at least 72 hours in urban centers, and up to two weeks in rural areas, if necessary, during continued antigovernment protests and political uncertainty. Yesterday, President Abdelaziz Bouteflika confirmed his intent to resign before the official end of his term on April 28. This would likely see the head of the Upper House of Parliament temporarily takeover Presidential duties, with elections organized within 90 days. Further nationwide rallies are scheduled for Friday, April 5. Travelers should monitor developments closely, maintain flexible itineraries, and avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.

Comoros

All travel to Comoros should be deferred through Friday, April 5. Travelers in country should minimize non-essential movement and be prepared to stand fast at secure accommodations, with sufficient supplies, at short notice. This advice reflects heightened political tensions and unrest linked to the March 24 Presidential Election, won by incumbent Azali Assoumani with 61% of the vote. The opposition has alleged fraud and unrest has followed the election, including on March 28 in Moroni after the arrest of a senior opposition figure.

Congo (DRC)

Travelers in Congo (DRC) should avoid all political gatherings ahead of the April 10 Gubernatorial Elections. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), the election results will be announced between April 26 and May 2. Travelers in Beni, Butembo, and Yumbi should exercise caution around the release of the results for the delayed March 31 General and Provincial Elections. While the voting passed off without any major incident, gatherings are possible around the announcement of the results, expected on Saturday, April 6.

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.

Guyana

Several workers at a manganese mine in Barima-Waini have fallen ill with difficulty breathing and fever. One person has died, while the others are being treated in isolation. Investigations and tests are continuing. There is no indication that the illness has spread beyond these co-workers. Travelers should follow routine general hygiene practices, avoid contact with animals and potentially contaminated water, and select safe food and water.

Kenya

An outbreak of cholera has been reported in Kajiado, Narok, and Nairobi 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.

Mozambique

Non-essential travel to Manica, Zambezia and Sofala provinces, as well as several districts in Niassa, Gaza, Inhambane and Tete provinces, should be deferred until further notice. This follows the damage and flooding caused by former Tropical Cyclone Idai. Heavy rainfall has hampered relief and repair efforts. The N6 Highway, the main overland route from Maputo to Beira, partially reopened on March 24 after a brief closure. Travelers should anticipate heightened security around key institutions such as government buildings and shops, as authorities seek to deter criminality and looting.

Nigeria

Today, travelers in Port Harcourt should avoid the vicinity of the University of Port Harcourt campus in the Choba area, following reports of gunfire.

Senegal

Today, President Macky Sall will be inaugurated for a second term at the Centre des Expositions de Dakar in Diamniadio, around 18 miles east of Dakar. With 12 heads of state among the dignitaries attending the ceremony, travelers should anticipate disruption and heightened security around the event venue and Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS). The A1 Route, which connects Dakar and the airport, will be closed between 8:45 AM and 11:00 AM local time. Travelers should allow additional time for journeys between Dakar and the airport and follow all official directives.

South Sudan

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

United Arab Emirates

From April 16 through May 30, passengers transiting Dubai International Airport (DXB) should reconfirm flights due to the scheduled closure of one of the facility’s runways for refurbishment. During this period, some flights serving the airport will be diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), 40 miles to the south. Authorities have made arrangements to reduce the impact on travelers by arranging a free shuttle service between the two airports. There will also be a regular bus service and additional taxis to take travelers from Al Maktoum Airport to key locations in Dubai.

Zimbabwe

Today, non-essential travel to Chimanimani, Chipinge, Mutare, and Nyanga districts should be deferred following the passage of former Tropical Cyclone Idai. Authorities have declared a State of Disaster in these districts. The official death toll is 259, though the actual number is suspected to be higher. Transportation infrastructure, communications networks, electricity, and water supplies have been severely damaged or disrupted.

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

Brunei

Tomorrow, the government will adopt the final phase of Sharia (Islamic law), which includes capital punishment for certain offenses, including homosexual sex and adultery. The country first declared Sharia law in 2014; it runs parallel to common law. Most laws under both codes apply to all people, regardless of their religion or nationality. While the actual enforcement of Sharia law may be sporadic, travelers should adopt necessary measures to ensure compliance with local laws.

India

Today, extreme-leftist Naxalite (Maoist) rebels have called for a bandh (shutdown strike) in Arwal, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, and Jehanabad districts. The bandh has been called in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election rally in Gaya City. The rebels have also called for a boycott of the upcoming Parliamentary Elections in the division. Travelers should anticipate heightened security and disruption during the bandh.

Philippines

An outbreak of measles is underway across the Philippines. 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.

Solomon Islands

Tomorrow, non-essential travel to the Solomon Islands should be deferred due to the General Elections. Low-level violence, including brawls, stone-throwing, vandalism and isolated acts of arson, is possible on Election Day in some areas, such as Honiara and Gizo. The announcement of results and appointment of the Prime Minister could also trigger unrest, including extensive rioting and looting. Travelers in the country over the election period should minimize movement, closely monitor developments, and avoid any related gatherings.

EUROPE

Belarus

Today, travelers should avoid all gatherings linked to the celebration of the National Unity of the Russian and Belarusian Peoples holiday. Authorities banned a related rally in Minsk by the Organizing Committee of the Belarusian Communist Parties (UNITY) movement. Participants had planned to gather at Minsk Hero City Obelisk on Victors Avenue to call for the unification of Russia and Belarus. Security forces will be quick to disperse crowds which congregate despite the ban. All public gatherings should be avoided as a precaution.

Cyprus

Today, travelers in Limassol should anticipate increased traffic congestion while an indefinite strike by bus drivers persists, and plan journeys accordingly. Drivers employed by the EMEL company began the walkout in connection with a dispute over alleged unpaid salaries and benefits. A related gathering was held at the bus terminal at the Limassol Old Hospital; all such events should be avoided as a precaution.

Russia

Today, travelers in St Petersburg should avoid the vicinity of the AF Mozhaysky Military-Space Academy following a reported explosion at the facility. Early reports say a mine detonated, and at least four people have been injured. It is unclear whether the blast was accidental or a deliberate act.

NOTEWORTHY EVENTS

April 2
Argentina: Day of the Veterans
Belarus: Union Day of Belarus and
Russia Jordan: Al Isra’ wal Miraj

April 3
United Arab Emirates, Australia,
Bangladesh, Brunei, Canada,
Indonesia, Comoros, Kuwait,
Malaysia, Oman, Philippines,
Pakistan, Russia, Somalia, United
Kingdom, United States, Mayotte,
South Africa: Leilat al-Meiraj (The
Prophet’s Ascension)
Iran: Prophet’s Ascension

April 4
Angola: Peace Day
Switzerland: Näfelser Fahrt
Senegal: Independence Day
Taiwan: Children’s Day

April 5
China: Qing Ming Jie
Hong Kong: Tomb Sweeping Day
South Korea: Arbor Day
Macau: Cheng Ming Festival
Nepal: Godhe Yatra
Taiwan: Tomb Sweeping Day

April 6
Burundi: President Ntaryamira
Day
Canada: National Tartan Day
China: Qing Ming Jie Holiday
India: Chaitra Sukhladi
Mauritius: Ougadi
Thailand: Chakri Day

April 7
Armenia: Motherhood and Beauty
Day
China: Qing Ming Jie Holiday
Kyrgyzstan: April People’s
Revolution Day
Mongolia: Health Day
Mozambique: Mozambican
Woman’s Day
Rwanda: Tutsi Genocide Memorial
Day

April 7
Turkmenistan: World Health Day
Tanzania: Karume Day

April 8
Switzerland: Sechseläuten
Kyrgyzstan: April People’s
Revolution Day (Observed)
North Macedonia: International
Romani Day (for Romani
community)
Mozambique: Mozambican
Woman’s Day (Observed)
Thailand: Chakri Day (Observed)
Kosovo: Day of Romas

April 9
Canada: Vimy Ridge Day
Georgia: Independence
Restoration Day
Philippines: The Day of Valor
Tunisia: Martyrs’ Day
Kosovo: Constitution Day of the
Republic of Kosovo

April 10
Costa Rica: Battle of Rivas

April 11
Costa Rica: Battle of Rivas

April 12
Bolivia: Children´s Day
Liberia: Fast and Prayer Day
Thailand: Songkran (Observed)


April 13

Bangladesh: Chaitra Sankranti
India: Rama Navami
Sri Lanka: Sinhala and Tamil New
Year’s Eve
Moldova: Special Working Day
Thailand: Songkran
Vietnam: Hung Kings Festival
Holiday

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