Warning levels decrease for Burma

Is Burma safer now that the unrest has died down? Government travel advice seems to think so. In the past week, both the Australian and Canadian governments have lowered the warning level for Burma (Myanmar). On January 25, Australia’s advice dropped one level from “reconsider your need to travel” to “exercise high degree of caution” (third out of five possible levels).

Likewise, on February 1, the Canadian government lowered its level of warning from “we advise against all non-essential travel” to “exercise high degree of caution”. Both governments still advise against all travel to border areas with Thailand.

So how does this warning level compare with other governments?

The U.S. Department of State’s Travel Alert for Burma – advising U.S. Citizens to defer non-essential travel -- expired the end of December 2007. The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office dropped its advisory against all but essential travel late November/early December. Both continue to warn of security and unrest at the Thai border though they haven't issued a specific warning.

Are Canada and Australia slow to react?

Not necessarily -- The bombings that took place in Burma from January 11-13 may be partially responsible for the differences. No two governments are completely alike when it comes to assessing and communicating risks.

Want to know what's going on now? Take a look at our Myanmar Travel Advisory page to see the latest updates, news and current issues.

Full tank a "must have" for travel

Can a political crisis in one country affect your road trip in another? Yes, if you’re traveling in Rwanda. Consider the following advice update from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office:

“The Government of Rwanda has imposed fuel (diesel, petrol and kerosene) restrictions on all private vehicles due to the ongoing political crisis in Kenya (all Rwanda's fuel is imported via Kenya). You can only purchase fuel up to a maximum value of 5 000 Rwandan Francs (roughly £5.00) at any one petrol station. Buses and taxis are not affected. If you plan to travel outside Kigali in a private vehicle you should make sure you have a full tank of fuel.”

While mediators work to settle the dispute in Kenya, there is currently no word on when these restrictions might be lifted.For the latest news and updates for Rwanda, check out our Rwanda Travel Advisory page.

Keep your luxuries to yourself in the DPRK

Do you know how the United Nations sanctions may affect you when traveling to North Korea?

The Australian government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade now warns its citizens to familiarize themselves with United Nations sanctions before they travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea), especially when it comes to luxury goods.

According to the governmental advice, Australians are allowed to carry items on the luxury goods list for their personal use only. The sale or transfer of goods is strictly prohibited.

Not Australian? You should still known and understand the UN sanctions. Check your government advice for more information.

An expert's advice on flight safety

What can you do to improve your safety when flying? Listen and pay attention to instructions, according to expert George Bibel. Citing the surprising statistic that passengers are more likely to survive an accident (five times more likely, in fact) than die, Bibel warns travellers to follow the instructions of flight attendants for their own safety. Even something as simple as fastening your seat belt can prevent serious injury during turbulence.

In addition to citing examples of crashes where passengers and crew were successfully evacuated, Bibel also discusses some interesting points about the structure and design of airplanes. For instance, did you know that Federal Aviation Association regulations require that a plane can be evacuated within 90 seconds -- even with unprepared passengers and half the exits blocked?

Want to see more? Read the full article: “Fasten your seatbelt. Yes, YOU” from the International Herald Tribune.

Mexico City's new "Women only" bus service

Concerned about safety on public transit? Look for the pink signs.

While a fact of life for the locals, Mexico City’s overcrowded transit system is the subject of warnings in travel advice. The crowded, chaotic buses are the perfect cover for pick pocketing and theft, and travellers are often warned against taking public transit during rush hour for this reason.

However, the women of Mexico City have a different concern: the groping, assault and verbal abuse they face on a daily basis. According to a recent article on Reuters, the transit authority has received numerous complaints and is now trying a new option: Women only buses. Identified by their pink signs, these buses run on the regular routes but only accept female passengers.

Currently, the buses only run on two of the city’s busiest routes, but look for a wider expansion of the program by April. The metro system also has reserved cars for women and children.

What does your airline think of your purse?


Tote bags, “hobo bags” and large purses are one of the latest fashion trends, but you might be surprised to learn that some airlines consider them to be a carry-on bag. With limits to carry-on luggage, it pays to do a little research.


For example: Many airlines allow two pieces of carry-on luggage: usually one standard article and one personal article (such as a briefcase, laptop bag, pillow or purse). But watch out for size and weight restrictions – the limits are even smaller for that personal article.



Luckily for travellers to the UK, that country recently lifted its restriction on the number of carry-on bags to fall in line with other airlines and airports.



Your best bet for avoiding problems: Go directly to your airline’s website for information on luggage restrictions. If you consult other sources, be sure to check the publication date and confirm the information with your airline (some articles date back to before 9/11).



Travelling with a purse? Make sure it will fit into one of your carry-on bags.

"Ladies only" on the train?

Travelling alone? A new pilot project on Russia’s long-distance trains may make the journey safer.

According to an online article recently published by Reuters many people traverse Russia by train rather than flying, and opt for four-bed compartments as a cheaper alternative for their journey.

The article reports that Russian Railways is now implementing a pilot program to improve the security and comfort of their customers. Travelers can now book tickets for male, female or mixed compartments. The program came about as a response to many requests -- mainly from female passengers, according to the operator quoted in the article.

The program is in place on eight long-distance trains so far, and if the initiative is successful will be implemented on a larger scale.

Get the 511 on traffic information

Traveling the U.S. by car? You probably already know that dialing 911 will reach emergency services and 411 will give you directory assistance. But did you know that 511 can give you important information that could affect your travels?

Like it’s “11” cousins, this number is being implemented through many states and areas to ensure consistency and easy access to information. With one call, the service provides information on traffic conditions, road closures, construction and emergency alerts. This data is also available online through the Federal Highway Administration at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/511.htm

A word to the wise: While the basic service is usually free, cell phone users may want to watch out for roaming and airtime fees, and hotel guests should check into phone use fees. Using a payphone is an expensive alternative.

Spain's new anthem set for release - or not?

In a post last summer we mentioned a competition aiming to provide official lyrics for Spain's national anthem. Now the results are in -- or are they?

As you recall, the goal of furnishing the anthem with lyrics was to give Spanish athletes and fans something to sing at international sporting competitions -- especially the 2008 Olympics. In the past, lyrics were used under the rules of King Alfonso and dictator Fransciso Franco, but neither set were made official.

According to a recent article on Expatica Spain, the jury made its selection after reviewing over 2000 entries. The new version seeks to stress unity so as to not offend regional nationalists such as the Basque or Catalan nationalists. The lyrics were supposed to be revealed in ceremony in Madrid on January 21, sung by tenor Placido Domingo.

However, the new lyrics have hit a snag: critics feel that they focus too much "the country's right-wing past and do not reflect Spain's cultural diversity", according to a recent article in the Mail and Guardian.

Because there is no official deadline for the project, no one knows when the new words will have their offical debut.

New Zealand plans a special honour for famed Everest adventurer Edmund Hillary

News of Sir Edmund Hillary’s death has prompted worldwide media attention and countless tributes – Even the Queen of England has sent a personal message to the family. Now the New Zealand government has a special plan to honour its famous adventurer: a State funeral.

According to a recent article on Radio New Zealand News, the details have not been officially set, the Hillary family has accepted the offer and the government plans to honour their wishes in the planning.

The funeral is set for January 22 at St Mary's. Hillary's body will lie in state at Holy Trinity Cathedral. Books of condolences are available for people to sign at the New Zealand Parliament.

Hillary is perhaps best known for his conquest of Mount Everest, but he was also an author and activist among his numerous achievements.For more information, read the news item from Radio New Zealand.

February is first-ever Reggae Month

It’s official: Prime Minister Bruce Golding announced on January 11 that this February will be the first-ever “Reggae Month.” What’s behind the move? According to an article on Caribbean Net News, the goal is to “highlight the impact of the musical genre on the country’s social, cultural and economic development.”

How will they manage this goal? Activities are planned to suit all interests including concerts, music showcases, film screenings and academic conferences. The Bob Marley Birthday Dinner will kick-off events on February 6.

However, events are for more than just enjoyment: Through studying and examining the music and considering its social history, officials hope to provide a “framework for that will guide the future development of the music” to ensure its longevity. The negative effects of some of the music – such as undermining social values and degrading women – will also be addressed. Supporting new artists and promoting the genre will also be a focus.

This month's events will hopefully be a lead in for 2009 -- 50th anniversary of reggae music

Foreign hikers require new card in Nepal

With its cultural history and natural beauty, Nepal is a favourite destination for hikers. The Government of Nepal and related organizations are now taking steps to help locate and contact hikers in the event of the emergency. (Don't worry -- it's free).



Check out the latest update from the U.S. State Department travel advice:


“The Government of Nepal has authorized the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to implement a new system for foreign hikers called the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). Beginning January 1, 2008, foreign visitors on hiking trips in Nepal , including those not with organized hiking groups, need to have a valid TIMS card issued by TAAN, its member agencies, or NTB. In the case of an emergency, the new system will help authorities ascertain the whereabouts of trekkers. TIMS cards are available free of charge through authorized trekking companies, the TAAN office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and the NT office.”


The moves comes as Nepal enjoys a new all-time high for tourist arrivals in 2007.For more information, news and advice please see our Nepal Travel Advisory page.

Foreign hikers require new TIMS card in Nepal

Planning a trek in Nepal? What you should know about the new TIMS card.

With its cultural history and natural beauty, Nepal is a favourite destination for hikers. The Government of Nepal and related organizations are now taking steps to help locate and contact hikers in the event of the emergency.

Check out the latest update from the U.S. State Department travel advice:

“The Government of Nepal has authorized the Trekking Agency Association of Nepal (TAAN) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) to implement a new system for foreign hikers called the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS). Beginning January 1, 2008, foreign visitors on hiking trips in Nepal , including those not with organized hiking groups, need to have a valid TIMS card issued by TAAN, its member agencies, or NTB. In the case of an emergency, the new system will help authorities ascertain the whereabouts of trekkers. TIMS cards are available free of charge through authorized trekking companies, the TAAN office in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and the NT office.”

For more information about Nepal, see our Nepal Travel Advisory page.

Canadians: Got a passport?

What does the January 31 deadline mean for your travel plans?

The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) is meant to improve security and simplify entry in to the U.S. As of the January 31 2008 deadline, Canadians now need a WHTI compliant document to enter the U.S. through Land and Sea entry points. Customs officials will stop asking for verbal declarations of citizenship and will start demanding proof. Most travellers will now need a government-issued photo I.D. (such as a driver’s license) and birth certificate.

A passport for land and sea travel may be required as soon as June 2008 but an official deadline has not been set by the U.S. government. Recent media reports indicate that this date has been pushed back to June 2009. There is also talk of enhanced driver’s licenses being accepted instead, but a passport is still the recommended document for international travel. Passports are still required for all air travel.

Questions? Check out our article on new entry requirements.

New Year throughout the year

When do you celebrate the start of a new year? It may depend on your religion or what country you are in.

January 1 is celebrated around the globe as the beginning of the New Year according to the Gregorian calendar. Australia and New Zealand -- who are among the closest countries to the International Date line -- kick off the celebrations each year.

February 18 celebrations mark the beginning of the Chinese New Year (Year of the Mouse), while Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is considered to be a holy time and is celebrated in September. Many other countries celebrate the New Year in February, March or April, depending on which calendar they use to calculate dates.

Sometimes New Year can even happen twice a year. For example, in 2008 many Muslims will observe Al-Hijra twice: on or about January 10 and on or about December 29 (depending on local tradition). The reason? The Islamic Calendar is based on the moon, and is therefore only 354 days.

Source: BBC Religion & Ethics Multi-faith Calendar