Canada’s official travel advice has once again thrust several beloved destinations into the spotlight, with Italy now joining Mexico, Germany, Sweden, Thailand, South Africa, Jamaica and others under sharpened warnings tied to political tensions, complicated entry systems and evolving security risks. For Canadian travellers planning 2026 getaways around winter sun, European culture or major global events, these advisories do not amount to blanket bans on travel, but they do signal a need for more careful planning, heightened situational awareness and a realistic understanding of what to expect on the ground.

Why Canada Is Turning Up the Volume on Travel Warnings

Global Affairs Canada updates its destination pages whenever new information emerges about terrorism threats, civil unrest, crime patterns, health concerns or major events likely to affect visitor safety. In recent months and into early 2026, that machinery has been running at full tilt as governments react to overlapping pressures: resurgent geopolitical tensions, high-profile sporting and religious gatherings, and the rapid rollout of new biometric border controls across Europe and beyond.

The standard Canadian risk levels range from “Take normal security precautions” to “Exercise a high degree of caution,” “Avoid non-essential travel” and “Avoid all travel.” Italy, Mexico, Germany, Sweden, Thailand, South Africa and Jamaica currently sit in the middle of that spectrum for most travellers, largely within the “Exercise a high degree of caution” band, but in some cases with pockets of stricter, region-specific warnings. That middle category often surprises travellers: it does not mean do not go, but it does mean the environment is less predictable than in Canada and that threats could materialize quickly.

While each advisory is tailored to a specific country, common threads are emerging. Authorities are particularly focused on the risk of terrorism in crowded European spaces, persistent violent crime in some Latin American and Caribbean cities, social tensions that can spill into demonstrations, and the vulnerability of travellers to fraud, cybercrime and opportunistic theft. Political flashpoints and sensitive public events add another layer, increasing the likelihood of security sweeps, transport disruptions and last-minute rule changes.

Against that backdrop, Canadians heading abroad in 2026 need to recognize that the travel landscape can shift rapidly, sometimes between booking and boarding. The good news is that with informed preparation and flexible itineraries, trips to these destinations can still be rewarding. The challenge is accepting that “set and forget” travel planning no longer matches today’s reality.

Italy: Terror Threats, Olympic Security and Tightening Controls

Italy’s advisory was updated again in early 2026, keeping the country at “Exercise a high degree of caution” primarily because of the threat of terrorism and an uptick in civil unrest linked to domestic political tensions. Authorities have flagged that demonstrations, some of them violent, have recently taken place in cities such as Turin, and warn that similar protests can erupt with little notice in large urban centres and around sensitive dates or events.

The timing matters. From February 6 to 22, 2026, northern Italy is hosting the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games, followed by the Paralympic Games in March. The country is also concluding Rome’s Holy Year Jubilee celebrations, which have drawn waves of pilgrims and tourists to religious events from late 2024 into early 2026. Both the Jubilee and the Olympics are magnets for large crowds and therefore natural priorities for Italy’s security apparatus, prompting heavier police and military presence, more bag checks and a lower tolerance for spontaneous gatherings in key public spaces.

Canadian officials stress that terrorist attacks in Italy cannot be ruled out, given the broader risk environment across Europe. Transport hubs, major tourist attractions, religious sites, shopping districts and entertainment venues are considered potential targets. Travellers are urged to stay alert, avoid lingering near demonstrations, follow the instructions of local authorities and remain flexible in case access to certain areas is temporarily closed or heavily restricted, especially in and around Olympic venues.

Alongside these high-impact risks, the everyday realities of travel in Italy also feature prominently in the advisory. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching remains common in major cities and on public transport, particularly in busy nodes like train stations, metro lines, markets and world-famous sites. Sophisticated scams, including distraction techniques, fake petitions and staged “accidents,” are also reported. For Canadian visitors, that translates into the need for basic but consistent precautions such as cross-body bags, limited display of valuables and extra vigilance in crowds.

Mexico, Jamaica and South Africa: Crime, Cartels and Uneven Security

Mexico, Jamaica and South Africa continue to attract Canadian travellers in high numbers, especially in winter, but the official warnings for these destinations have grown increasingly detailed. In Mexico, the national advisory urges a high degree of caution due to widespread violent crime and kidnapping, with specific “avoid non-essential travel” or stricter notes attached to certain states affected by cartel activity and clashes with security forces. While many resort corridors operate under heavy private and public security, recent incidents have shown that violence can spill into hotels, restaurants and nightlife zones.

For travellers, the key nuance is geographical. The same country that offers well-policed resort areas and popular archaeological sites also contains border regions and interior states with volatile security profiles. Canadian guidance frequently calls out states such as Guerrero, Michoacán and parts of Sinaloa as areas where shootings, extortion and roadblocks are more common. Travellers are encouraged to stay inside established tourist areas, avoid driving after dark, use registered taxis or hotel-arranged transfers and monitor local news for signs of escalating tension.

Jamaica’s advisory also centres on crime and personal safety, with violent incidents, including armed robbery and homicide, reported in neighbourhoods of Kingston, Montego Bay and other urban centres that are not far from tourist enclaves. Authorities warn that police resources can be stretched thin and that emergency responses may not always be quick. Visitors are advised to avoid walking alone, particularly at night, to refrain from displaying wealth and to rely on trusted transportation rather than informal taxis or unmarked vehicles.

In South Africa, the concern is a combination of high crime rates, occasional civil unrest and localized breakdowns in services, such as power and policing, which can create windows of vulnerability. The advisory highlights carjackings, robberies and home invasions, including attacks that target travellers leaving airports or driving rental cars. Canadians are urged to keep car doors locked, avoid township areas unless with reputable guides, plan airport transfers in advance and steer clear of demonstrations that may turn confrontational. While many visitors experience South Africa without incident, the risk picture is more acute than in many other long-haul destinations.

Germany, Sweden and Thailand: Political Tensions, Protests and Regional Flashpoints

Germany and Sweden remain pillars of European tourism, but they are not immune to today’s risk dynamics. Canadian advice for Germany underscores an elevated terrorism threat affecting government buildings, transportation hubs and crowded attractions, alongside rising reports of pickpocketing, fraud and cybercrime. Demonstrations over domestic and international issues have become more frequent in major cities, occasionally disrupting traffic and public services and, in some cases, leading to clashes with police.

In Sweden, the level of concern is similarly framed around terrorism and politically charged protests. High-profile incidents and inflammatory events in recent years have drawn international attention and triggered security reprisals, leading to an environment where authorities respond quickly to perceived threats around embassies, religious institutions and central squares. Canadian travellers are advised to avoid large gatherings where tempers may run high, stay updated on local developments and follow any temporary restrictions introduced by police.

Thailand’s advisory reflects a more overtly political backdrop. There, Canada points to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and other cities, as well as long-running insurgencies and clashes in certain southern provinces and along border regions. In some border districts and deep-south provinces, the guidance escalates to “avoid all travel” because of the combination of armed attacks, bombings and targeted killings. In the capital and popular tourist areas, protests can still erupt, sometimes shutting down intersections, rail lines or government buildings.

For visitors to Thailand, the message is twofold. First, do not underestimate the volatility of areas far from the usual island or city-break circuits, particularly along the border with Cambodia and in parts of the deep south. Second, even in otherwise calm cities, treat demonstrations as security events: avoid joining crowds, have alternate routes planned and carry documentation in case of spot checks. While Thailand’s tourism infrastructure is robust, pockets of instability mean itineraries should be crafted with mapping precision rather than blind spontaneity.

Complicated Entry Requirements and Biometric Borders

Security concerns are not the only reason Canada is sharpening its wording around certain destinations. A second, rapidly evolving front is the patchwork of new entry requirements, from digital registration systems to biometric border checks, that can trip up unprepared travellers. Italy and other European Union members are rolling out electronic pre-clearance and enhanced identity checks for many foreign nationals, including Canadians, as part of wider border modernization efforts.

These systems, which sit alongside existing passport controls, are designed to screen travellers before arrival and to flag risks more proactively. In practice, they also add layers of administration and create the potential for travellers to be denied boarding or entry if their documentation is incomplete, expired or inconsistent. Advisory notes increasingly warn Canadians to confirm visa needs, complete any required online travel authorizations well in advance and carry supporting documents, such as proof of accommodation and return flights, in case they are requested at the border.

Outside Europe, countries like Mexico, Jamaica, South Africa and Thailand maintain or periodically tighten their own immigration and customs rules, including stricter scrutiny of length-of-stay limits, return tickets, evidence of sufficient funds and adherence to local labour and residence laws. Canada’s advisories flag that failing to respect entry and exit conditions can lead not only to refused entry but also to fines, detention or bans on future travel, with relatively little scope for consular intervention.

The complexity is compounded during major events, such as Italy’s Winter Olympics or international football tournaments, when temporary measures can be added at short notice: restricted zones, special passes for certain areas, curfews in sensitive districts or extra transit verification. The underlying message in the latest guidance is clear. In an era of increasingly digital and security-oriented borders, Canadians can no longer assume that a valid passport alone will guarantee simple, frictionless entry everywhere.

Practical Steps for Canadians Travelling to High-Caution Destinations

Canada’s advisories are meant as planning tools, not trip-killers. For many travellers, the main question is how to turn dense government language into usable strategies on the ground. The first step is to read the full advisory for your destination, noting not just the national risk level but also any region-specific warnings that may affect a planned resort, road trip or excursion. Mapping those details against your itinerary helps you avoid blind spots, such as a scenic coastal drive that inadvertently crosses into a higher-risk zone after dark.

Next, adjust your travel habits to fit the context. In countries where violent crime or carjackings are a concern, arrange airport transfers through your hotel or a verified operator rather than via curbside touts. In destinations prone to demonstrations or political rallies, build margin into your schedule so that a blocked street or shuttered metro line does not cause a cascade of missed connections. When petty theft is a recurring issue, pare back what you carry each day to essentials, store passports in hotel safes when possible and stay alert to anyone creating a distraction.

Digital hygiene is becoming as important as physical security. In Europe and elsewhere, Canadian authorities are drawing attention to cybercrime, including card skimming, fake Wi-Fi networks and phishing schemes targeting tourists. Using mobile data instead of unsecured public Wi-Fi where possible, enabling multi-factor authentication on key accounts and monitoring financial statements during and after travel are simple but effective measures.

Finally, consider purchasing robust travel insurance that covers medical care, emergency evacuation and trip disruption, as many of the risks highlighted in warnings can lead not only to safety issues but also to significant financial loss. In an environment of volatile weather, security operations and political tensions, trips are more likely than ever to be affected by flight cancellations, route changes or sudden closures of attractions.

The Takeaway

Canada’s urgent travel warnings for Italy, Mexico, Germany, Sweden, Thailand, South Africa, Jamaica and other popular destinations are not an invitation to retreat from the world, but a reminder that travel now demands more forethought than in the past. Political tensions, evolving terrorism risks, crime, and complex entry regimes are reshaping how and where Canadians move, especially in a year dense with global events from the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics to religious celebrations and regional tournaments.

For travellers willing to engage with this new reality, the rewards remain substantial. The art-filled avenues of Rome, the beaches of Mexico and Jamaica, the urban culture of Berlin and Stockholm, the landscapes of South Africa and the street life of Bangkok are still accessible. The critical difference lies in preparation: checking advisories regularly, respecting local conditions, planning conservatively and staying nimble when circumstances change.

In 2026, smart travel is not just about snagging the best fare or the most photogenic hotel. It is about understanding the political and security currents beneath your chosen destination and adjusting your expectations accordingly. With that mindset, Canadians can continue to explore high-caution countries safely, turning official warnings into informed, empowered decisions instead of last-minute surprises at the border.

FAQ

Q1: Does Canada’s advisory for Italy mean I should cancel my trip?
Not necessarily. Italy is currently at a mid-level warning that asks travellers to exercise a high degree of caution, largely because of terrorism risks, demonstrations and upcoming major events like the Winter Olympics. For most travellers, that means staying alert, avoiding protests and allowing extra time for security checks, not cancelling outright.

Q2: Are Mexican beach resorts still safe for Canadian tourists?
Many popular resort areas in Mexico continue to welcome tourists without incident, but Canada’s advisory stresses that violent crime and cartel activity exist in the same country, sometimes not far away. You should stay within established tourist zones, avoid unnecessary night travel, use reputable transportation and keep up to date with local developments for the region you are visiting.

Q3: Why is Sweden on Canada’s list when it is seen as a safe country?
Sweden remains relatively safe by global standards, but Canada highlights an elevated terrorism threat and the potential for politically charged demonstrations. The advisory urges travellers to avoid large gatherings, remain aware of their surroundings in crowded areas and follow any security instructions issued by local authorities.

Q4: What are the main risks in Jamaica for Canadian visitors?
In Jamaica, the advisory focuses on violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, in parts of Kingston, Montego Bay and other urban areas. While resorts often have security, incidents can still occur nearby. Travellers are advised to avoid walking alone, especially at night, to limit displays of wealth and to rely on trusted transport arranged through hotels or licensed providers.

Q5: How do political tensions affect travel to Thailand?
In Thailand, political tensions can lead to sudden demonstrations and disruptions in Bangkok and other cities, while some southern provinces and border regions face ongoing insurgency and violence. Canada advises avoiding high-risk border zones entirely, steering clear of protests and monitoring local news so you can adjust plans quickly if unrest flares.

Q6: What should I know about biometric borders and new entry systems in Europe?
European countries, including Italy, are rolling out electronic pre-clearance and biometric border checks that require travellers to submit additional information before arrival. Canadians should confirm any required online travel authorizations, verify passport validity and carry proof of accommodation and return travel, as failing to meet these requirements can result in denied boarding or entry.

Q7: Can Canadian consular officials help if I get into trouble abroad?
Canadian consular officials can provide support such as advice, contact with local authorities and information on legal and medical services, but their ability to intervene is limited by local laws and security conditions. They cannot override local immigration decisions, pay fines or secure special treatment, which is why following local regulations and advisories is so important.

Q8: How can I reduce my risk of crime in high-caution countries?
Basic precautions go a long way: keep valuables out of sight, use hotel safes when available, avoid walking alone at night, choose licensed taxis or prearranged transfers, and be wary of distractions or unsolicited offers of help. Staying in well-reviewed accommodations and sticking to known tourist routes also helps reduce exposure to higher-risk areas.

Q9: Are protests and demonstrations something tourists should ever join?
Canada’s advisories consistently recommend that travellers avoid demonstrations and large political gatherings, even if they appear peaceful. Crowds can change character quickly, and security responses may involve tear gas, road closures or mass detentions. Observing from a distance or steering clear altogether is the safest approach.

Q10: How often should I check Canada’s travel advisories before a trip?
You should review the official advisory when you first start planning, again just before booking, and at least once more in the days leading up to departure. Conditions can shift rapidly because of political developments, security incidents or new entry rules. Checking regularly allows you to adapt your itinerary and expectations before you are already in transit.