Canadians: Why your CCC won't get you in

Got a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship? You'll still need a passport for foreign travel, otherwise
you may face unnecessary delays and hassles, or be turned away at the border. While many Canadians have a CCC as proof of citizenship in order to apply for jobs, get a passport or obtain other official documents, the certificate cannot be used as a travel document.

Here’s the proof: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada has recently been updating its travel reports to include the following warning:

“A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s license, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.”

Translation: Get a passport or expect trouble.

While the CCC can’t be used as proof of citizenship for entry into the U.S., a birth certificate and driver’s license will still suffice at land and sea borders.

When in doubt, check the government advice to see what documentation you need.

Kosovo gets its own advice

Looking for travel advice specific to Kosovo? Now you can find it.

If you’ve been listening to the radio, watching TV or reading the news, you already know that Kosovo declared independence on February 17. Word of the announcement and related civil unrest has already made it into government travel advice for Serbia.

But the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has taken it one step further: it has released a travel advice page specifically for Kosovo. The FCO is the first governent to separate Serbia and Kosovo travel advice.

Other governments may follow suit in the coming weeks. For now, all advice pertain to Serbia and/or Kosovo can be found on the Serbia (Kosovo) Travel Advisory page. (Note: Currently the advice and news is still so tightly integrated that we're keeping it on one page... for now...)

Four years prison for a cigarette butt?

Possession of illegal drugs can land you in serious trouble anywhere in the world... But do you know what is legal or not? Some countries such as the United Arab Emirates have particularly strict rules, and tourists are ending up in prison as a result.

A recent press release from legal charity Fair Trails International warns travellers “to ensure they are completely free of any substances prohibited by that country” [the UAE]. The warning comes following the conviction of a British citizen after a cigarette stub containing trace amounts of cannabis was found in the tread of his shoe. Other citizens have been arrested and charged for carrying painkillers, cold medication and other over the counter medications containing codeine. One man was even arrested for having three poppy seeds from a bagel on this clothing.

The release warns that even a trace amount could result in a four-year prison sentence. To help travellers avoid future problems, the charity has published a List of Controlled Pharmaceutical Substances in UAE. Travellers are advised to avoid taking any medications with them unless absolutely necessary.

Want to know more about traveling with medication? Check out AST’s article Taking medication on holiday.

Update: According to media reports February 25-26, the British citizen mentioned above was released after receiving a full pardon.

Two essential ski vacation tips

The cold temperatures and abundant snowfalls are a perfect combination for outdoor activities such as skiing and snowboarding. If your outdoor adventure takes you across the border, here are two things to watch out for:

1. Make sure you’re covered. Many travel insurance policies don’t cover high-risk activities like skiing or snowboarding. Check out the fine print in your policy before you buy. Already insured? Look for an upgrade to make sure you are protected in case of an accident.

2. Keep your wits about you. Even if you know your limit, you should be aware that the effects of alcohol are more potent at higher altitudes. Your insurance policy likely won’t cover you if an accident happens while you have been drinking. A good rule of thumb: potentially dangerous activities and alcohol shouldn’t be mixed.

For other ski vacation advice, see the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Advice to Skiers and Snowboarders Planning a Winter Break.

Why do Brits need help abroad?

What are three common reasons need help abroad – and what can you can do to avoid the same problems?

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice includes in its summary how many of its nationals visit a country, and for what reasons they may seek consular help. Here are the top three issues that come up most often, and what you can do to avoid them:

Lost or stolen passports: Easily the most common issue, and often tied to petty crime such as pick pocketing. Take extra care to safeguard your documents like using a hotel safe, and keep a photocopy handy to help obtain a replacement if needed.

Arrest or detention: Most often people are arrested for drug offenses or alcohol related incidents such as drunk driving and vandalism. Sidestep this problem by following local laws and customs and drinking responsibly.

Hospitalization or Death: Don’t panic: The advice is careful to note that most deaths are from natural causes. Accidents and health emergencies can happen abroad as well as at home. If the worst happens, travel insurance – including health coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation – can cover the substantial costs. Your embassy can help with the rest.

The FCO’s advice usually notes that “most visits are trouble-free”. Considering the large number of travellers who visit a country each year, the number of people requiring help is quite small by comparison. Keep a copy of your embassy’s contact information (including emergency phone number) with you so you’ll always know where to find help.

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.

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.

Schengen area grows again

Planning a trip to Europe? The Schengen Convention is about to make it a little easier. (The “Schengen Area” is the common name for member countries who have implemented the agreement).As of December 21, nine new countries -- Poland, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, Malta, Slovakia, Slovenia and Hungary -- will be added.

What does this mean for travellers?

If you’re not familiar with the Schengen Convention, it’s the agreement whereby member countries have common rules regarding visas, asylum rights and controls at the external borders. Internal border controls among member countries have been abolished.

In other words, if you plan to visit more than one of the 22 countries involved, a Schengen visa will cover the entire area. Generally, most travellers do not need a visa for stays than 90 days, unless travelling for work, research or study.

However, since border post and controls between member countries have been abolished travel delays, particularly on the roadways, have significantly decreased. In other words, the more countries involved, the easier it is to get around without hassle.

Many of the European Union countries have also signed the Schengen Convention, but the United Kingdom and Ireland are exceptions. Switzerland will be the next country to implement the Schengen agreement sometime in 2008.

Here’s to your (travel) health

Looking for health information for a specific country? Here’s where to find it.

Recognizing that travel health is an important issue, a number of health sites have improved their information over the past year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) traded its broad region pages for new country-specific pages as part of its new release in Summer 2007. Visitors can now find content related to particular country in addition to general information on health-related issues and outbreak news.

As of September 2007, the UK-based National Travel Health Network and Center (NaTHNaC) now features country information pages meant to be used in conjunction with a pre-travel health consultation. The content includes both general health issues as well as location-specific risks.

When is the best time to look into health concerns? You’ll want to book an appointment with a travel health clinic at least six to eight weeks before your trip for vaccinations.

“But I’m not going to get sick.”

A new study shows that travellers who skip recommended immunizations are bringing back unwanted souvenirs. While no one plans to catch a serious illness while on vacation, travellers should be doing more to prevent it. Despite the warnings many people are still ignoring the risks.

A recent article in BBC News reveals some starting figures: More and more travellers are bringing back vaccine-preventable illnesses from their travels. For example, typhoid has recently emerged in the UK with 248 cases appearing in 2006 – half of which travellers acquired abroad (and could have been prevented).

If these illnesses are preventable, why are they still occurring? The numbers show a lack of knowledge. A recent survey reveals that many people aren’t aware of what illnesses are preventable. For instance, two thirds of respondents did not know typhoid was preventable with a vaccine, while about 40% incorrectly thought there was a vaccine for malaria.

The key to healthy travel is education. Find out what vaccines are recommended for your destination and take them. Links to vaccine resources and can be found in the “Immunization” section of our country advice pages.

Currency check in Nepal

There is more to managing your money while traveling in Nepal than just knowing the local currency is the Nepalese rupee.

In fact, according to the US Department of State Consular Information Sheet for Nepal, travelers must declare any cash currency they carry that exceeds $2,000. Travelers are required to fill out a customs declaration form and keep a copy of the endorsed form with them.

Another “note” of caution: Don’t confuse your currency! It is illegal to carry 500 or 1,000 Indian rupee notes in Nepal.

Beware: Thieves could make you pay

Did you know you may have to pay if your car is stolen in Bulgaria?

According to a recent advice update from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office, victims of car theft may be subject to fines and taxes. Technically, a car registered outside of the EU is considered to be “temporarily imported.” If the car is stolen while in Bulgaria, the owner must pay import duty and all related taxes.

Check out the advice for Bulgaria for more policies about driving.

What is ANZAC Day?

ANZAC (short for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) Day marks the anniversary of the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at the Gallipoli Peninsula in 1915.
This important anniversary is marked every year with ceremonies to commemorate the campaign and the thousands of soldiers who lost their lives.

The Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs website outlines the history of ANZAC Day and provides information about worldwide events on this day.

According to a recent article on NEWS.com.au, security measures will be even tighter for this year’s events in Turkey. For example, attendees with be required to wear a wrist-band to show that they have passed security screening, and alcohol and inappropriate entertainment will be banned.

Both the Australian and New Zealand governments have issued special travel bulletins.

To click or not to click? - That is the question

Today more and more people are taking digital photos and using technology to share them through the Internet. However, camera use in other countries may be governed by different cultural norms. Being aware of these problems can prevent misunderstandings.

Sometimes the issue is a matter of security: In general, you should avoid taking pictures of anything to do with the military. For example, the US Department of State includes a warning to that effect in its Consular Information Sheet for the United Arab Emirates. This warning can easily apply to other countries including Canada and the US.

Sometimes the issue is a matter of courtesy: Many nations have different cultural courtesies when it comes to taking pictures. For example, the Samoan Tourism Authority recommends that you ask permission before you take pictures in villages. Learn about the local customs where you are traveling.

A good rule of thumb: When in doubt, ask.

What is an IDP, and why do you need it?

In addition to allowing you to drive in foreign countries, the IDP has other advantages too.

The International Driver’s Permit is an internationally recognized license that allows you to drive in other countries without the inconvenience and hassle of additional tests or qualifications. The license is recognized in countries who signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic, and also in many countries who didn’t sign. The ability to rent and drive a car in another country can allow you the freedom to explore. The IDP is usually available through your local automobile association.

Additional advantages? In many locations, the IDP counts as photo ID. The IDP also provides a translated copy of your driving qualifications because it can be translated into ten different languages - English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, German, Arabic, Italian, Scandinavian and Portuguese.

Not sure if you need one? Check your travel information and governmental advice for your destination to verify. You should also be aware of road conditions, safety concerns and local laws before you hit the road.

When cash matters

Sometimes ATM cards, credit cards and travelers’ checks may be useless in some countries. Here’s what you should know about cash societies:

Many countries such as Libya are cash societies, meaning that reliable ATMs are rare and many businesses don’t accept credit cards. Certain designated locations such as airports have an ATM or the ability to accept cash wires. You should know how and where to access cash in case of an emergency.

Sometimes these countries call for travelers to be in possession of a certain amount of cash as part of their entry requirements. For instance, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office notes in its advice that visitors to Libya must have the equivalent of 500 Libyan Dinars in order to get into the country.

When in doubt, check with you travel agent and double check with government advice.

Samoa still safe for travelers

With a variety of news sources recently predicting a slump in Fiji tourism due to the coup, Samoa is careful to distinguish itself from neighboring nations when it comes to safety and security.

According to a recent article in the New Zealand Herald, the Samoan Tourism Authority (STA) has launched a new campaign to promote itself as a safe and stable tourist destination, especially in the wake of the coup in neighboring Fiji. The STA’s website describes the country as a safe travel destination because of low crime rates and freedom from terrorist threats.

Critics of the plan argue that argue that Samoa may be taking advantage of the situation in Fiji, but the STA maintains that the campaign is to make sure people don’t “lump” all Pacific nations together.

Our advice? Educate yourself. Consult government travel advice to discover new travel destinations and find out what issues are present in a given country.

Kiss with caution in Qatar

Can a kiss get you into trouble in Qatar? Yes, according to the Australian government.

While public displays of affection are commonplace in many countries they can land in you trouble in others. For example, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs travel advice for Qatar warns travelers that the country has strict Islamic codes regarding dress and behavior. There have been reports of Australians being detained by police for public displays of affection. Respecting local customs can save a lot of time and hassle.

Where to go for official advice

According to a recent survey conducted by Redfern Research, only 1 in 4 travelers consult government advice when they are researching their trips. What are you missing, and where can you find it?

According to Redfern, one of the reasons so few people consult government sources is that they are not aware of the services and information governments have started to provide in the past few years. Government advice is well-researched and reviewed, and contains the information that travelers need to know, such as current issues, travel warnings, country information and visa requirements.

For English-speaking travelers, here are the main advice sources:

• Smartraveller.gov.au (Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
• Voyage.gc.ca (Canada Foreign Affairs and International Trade Office)
• Safetravel.govt.nz (New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
• Foreign & Commonwealth Office (United Kingdom)
• Travel.state.gov (United States Department of State)

While you should always check your government's advice for your travel destination, it never hurts to compare the content with other governments. Different countries have access to different levels of information based on diplomatic relations and geographic proximity.