France Unites with Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Morocco, and China as Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Strongly Advising Tourists to Avoid Unstable Areas and Stay Safe in Light of Recent Escalating Threats

Published on November 4, 2025

In light of recent and increasing safety concerns, the latest travel advice from Canada requests tourists to safeguard France, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Morocco, and China due to terrorism, violent crime, and political unrest concerns. Canada points out the security concerns and the risks related to a terrorist attack in a major city and violent crime and border conflict clashes. Hence, the risk of politically motivated violencein the above mentioned countries. Canada reminds travellers of the need to take precautions that would most likely ensure crime. Advisory and recommendations seem to indicate that the best way to ensure safety and mitigate risks is to be informed and monitor local conditions, take high-risk areas and avoid bordering conflict zones and comply with local authority directives.

Canada has recently issued a new travel advisory for several high-profile tourist destinations across the globe, urging travelers to avoid unstable areas and stay safe in light of growing security concerns. The countries highlighted in this advisory—France, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Morocco, and China—are facing escalating threats, ranging from violent crime and political unrest to terrorism. Canadian travelers are strongly advised to be aware of the rising dangers and to take precautionary measures when visiting these regions. In this article, we explore the details of the Canadian government’s warnings and provide vital safety tips for each of these destinations.

France: High-Risk of Terrorism and Public Safety Concerns

France remains one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, yet recent developments have raised alarms regarding its security situation. The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory advising travelers to exercise a high degree of caution due to the elevated threat of terrorism.

Terrorism and Public Security Measures

In response to the heightened threat, France has activated its Vigipirate plan, a security framework designed to combat terrorism. The country has implemented extensive measures, including military personnel patrolling public spaces and strategic locations, with the Vigipirate alert level currently at level 3 – Urgence Attentat (Attack Emergency). This status signifies an active and ongoing risk, particularly in Paris and other major cities.

The Canadian government strongly advises travelers to avoid large gatherings, such as public events, sporting occasions, and religious celebrations, which may be targeted by extremists. The most vulnerable sites are often tourist hubs, airports, and public transport networks, where heightened military and police presence can be expected.

Crime and Petty Theft Risks

In addition to terrorism threats, petty crime remains rampant in tourist-heavy areas, including public transport and popular sites like museums and restaurants. Pickpockets and thieves are notorious in the Paris Metro and international rail networks, often targeting distracted tourists. Travelers are urged to keep personal belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables while exploring the city.

Brazil: Widespread Violence and Gang Activity Pose Serious Risks

Brazil has long been associated with high crime rates, and the situation has escalated in recent months. The Canadian government has issued an urgent advisory for Brazil, specifically warning about the violent crime that plagues urban areas such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Salvador.

Regional Risks and Armed Violence

The presence of gangs and drug cartels has made many neighborhoods highly dangerous. Armed robberies, carjackings, and violent assaults are frequently reported, often occurring in crowded public spaces. Travelers are urged to avoid certain regions, particularly border areas, where organized criminal groups control trafficking routes.

Safety Measures and Crime Prevention

To ensure safety, travelers should dress down, avoid displaying expensive jewelry, and avoid walking alone after dark. ATMs in well-lit public spaces are safer than those in isolated areas, and tourists are advised to avoid traveling at night.

Mexico: Crime, Kidnapping, and Demonstrations Increasingly Endanger Tourists

Mexico remains a popular vacation destination, but the Canadian government has raised serious concerns over the rising crime rates and kidnapping incidents. Certain regions, including Chihuahua, Sinaloa, and Jalisco, are considered high-risk areas due to the ongoing clashes between criminal cartels and law enforcement.

Violence Linked to Organized Crime

Violent incidents, including shootouts between rival gangs, are common in cities like Culiacán and Mazatlán. The Canadian advisory urges travelers to exercise extreme caution in these areas and to limit movements to safer, tourist-friendly zones. Traveling at night in certain regions should be avoided, as criminal activities are more prevalent after dark.

Petty Crime and Demonstrations

Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and drive-by thefts are common in tourist areas. Mexico City’s metro system and bus stations are hotspots for petty crime, with thieves targeting unsuspecting travelers. Furthermore, demonstrations and strikes are frequent and often lead to disruptions in transportation. It is crucial to stay informed of local events and avoid demonstrations where possible.

Colombia: Kidnapping, Armed Conflict, and Violence in Border Areas

Colombia has significantly improved its tourism infrastructure in recent years, but high levels of violence and the presence of illegal armed groups still pose a significant threat. Canada has issued a strong warning against traveling to several Colombian regions, particularly near the Venezuelan and Panamanian borders.

Regional Risk and Armed Groups

Many border regions are under the control of drug cartels and armed militias, which frequently engage in kidnapping, extortion, and violent confrontations. Canadian tourists are urged to avoid all travel to areas such as Arauca, Chocó, and the Port of Tumaco, where violence is widespread.

Safety Tips and Precautionary Measures

If travel to Colombia is essential, it is advised to fly to safer destinations and avoid land routes that pass through these high-risk areas. Always be vigilant in urban areas, especially in Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín, where street crime is common. The use of online dating apps in Colombia has also been linked to serious safety incidents, including drugging and robbery. Tourists should be cautious when meeting new people, particularly if meeting online.

Morocco: Terrorism and Crime Risks in Remote and Urban Areas

Morocco is often seen as a safe travel destination, but the Canadian government has issued a cautionary travel advisory due to terrorist threats and violent crime, particularly in rural areas near the Algerian border and in the Western Sahara.

Terrorist Activity and Safety Measures

The Western Sahara remains unstable, with military presence in the area and a high risk of encountering unexploded ordnance. Terrorist groups have previously targeted both foreigners and Moroccan nationals, leading to the death of tourists in 2018. The Canadian advisory strongly advises travelers to avoid non-essential travel to this region.

Crime and Petty Theft in Major Cities

In urban areas, such as Marrakech and Casablanca, pickpocketing and theft are common. Travelers should remain vigilant, especially in medinas and markets, where thieves often target unsuspecting tourists. Keep personal belongings secure, and avoid displaying expensive items in public.

China: Security Concerns in Xinjiang and Tibet

The Canadian government has also issued a warning for travelers heading to China, specifically regarding the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and Tibet, where human rights violations and increased surveillance have raised significant concerns.

Xinjiang and Tibet: Heightened Security and Travel Restrictions

In Xinjiang, China’s crackdown on Uighur Muslims and other minorities has led to arbitrary detentions and widespread surveillance. Travelers should be cautious if they have ethnic or familial ties to the region. Similarly, entry into Tibet requires a permit, and local authorities may arbitrarily deny access to foreigners without proper documentation.

Crime and Demonstrations

Though violent crime against tourists in China is rare, pickpocketing remains a risk in crowded public areas. Demonstrations are prohibited, and foreign nationals participating in or even witnessing a protest could face severe legal action.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Global Travel in the Face of Escalating Threats

With the growing security threats in France, Morocco, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, and China, it’s imperative for travelers to take precautionary measures to ensure their safety. While these countries offer rich cultural experiences, the rising risks of crime, political unrest, and terrorism demand that travelers remain vigilant and well-prepared.

Canada has issued a new travel advisory urging tourists to avoid unstable areas in France, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Morocco, and China due to escalating terrorism and violent crime, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and caution in these regions.

By keeping up to date with government travel advisories, being cautious of their surroundings, and following local security guidelines, tourists can protect themselves and enjoy their travel experiences safely. Always prioritize safety over convenience and avoid high-risk regions whenever possible.