Tuesday, June 10, 2025
Costa Rica has officially joined countries like Italy, Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Jamaica, Denmark, Oman, and others in receiving updated safety advice from the Government of Canada, as rising concerns over crime and security risks prompt a new wave of travel alerts aimed at protecting Canadian travelers abroad. This latest advisory underscores Canada’s efforts to keep citizens informed amid evolving global conditions, warning travelers to exercise increased caution in these destinations due to petty theft, rising street crime, or broader safety concerns.
As global travel resumes at full pace in 2025, a growing number of countries — including Costa Rica, Italy, Brazil, Peru, Mexico, Jamaica, Denmark, Oman and now Canada — are updating their official safety advice for tourists, citing rising concerns over crime, civil unrest, terrorism, and other localized risks that travelers should be aware of before packing their bags.
Costa Rica: Watch Your Valuables and Stay Alert
Costa Rica’s updated advisory urges visitors to remain cautious due to increasing incidents of petty crime. Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and passport theft are especially common in tourist-heavy areas like scenic viewpoints, hotel lobbies, buses, and open-air restaurants. Thieves often work in distraction teams, targeting foreigners during the country’s busiest travel seasons — from November to May and again in July and August.
Italy: Classic Destinations, Common Scams
Italy continues to be one of the world’s most visited destinations, but authorities warn that tourists are frequent targets of theft in crowded places. Pickpocketing is rampant in areas like Rome’s historic centers, Milan’s train stations, and Venice’s popular attractions. Thieves often use distraction tactics — such as fake spills, overfriendly strangers, or sudden conversations — to divert attention and grab belongings. Visitors are advised to remain alert, particularly in hotels, public transit, and busy restaurants.
Brazil: Crime Remains a Real Concern
Brazil’s travel advisory highlights elevated risks in major cities, especially Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, and Recife. While theft is the most common issue, violent crime is not uncommon, especially in areas affected by gang activity. Tourists are encouraged to avoid high-risk zones, especially at night, and to stay informed through local news. In border regions, criminal activity tied to trafficking adds another layer of risk.
Peru: Crime and Social Unrest Go Hand in Hand
Peru’s government continues to deal with both criminal activity and frequent social protests. A state of emergency remains in place for several districts in Lima and Callao, with military and police forces authorized to conduct ID checks and enforce movement restrictions. Civil demonstrations can turn unpredictable and occasionally violent, so travelers are advised to stay away from protest zones and check news updates regularly.
Mexico: Ongoing Violence Prompts Continued Caution
Mexico has reiterated its warnings to travelers in response to violent clashes between rival groups in cities like Culiacán and Mazatlán. These incidents have included roadblocks, armed stops, and gunfire in public spaces. While many tourist areas remain safe and operational, the country’s alert advises limiting travel in certain high-risk regions, especially in northern and western states. Tourists should monitor official channels and follow local guidance at all times.
Jamaica: Gang Violence Still a Problem
Jamaica’s advisory notes that while resorts remain heavily guarded, violent crime continues in several parts of Kingston, Montego Bay, and other urban centers. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to theft, and in some cases, can be caught in crossfire. Travelers are advised to avoid high-risk neighborhoods, stay in well-known areas, and follow curfews or local restrictions when applicable.
Denmark: Stay Cautious in Busy Tourist Areas
While Denmark ranks high on safety indexes, its new advisory reminds tourists that even low-crime countries are not immune to petty theft. During peak travel seasons, pickpockets often operate in Copenhagen’s transport systems, public squares, and hotel lobbies. Some work in well-dressed groups that blend in with the crowd. Travelers should keep passports, wallets, and bags secured at all times.
Oman: Stable but Regionally Tense
Oman remains one of the more stable countries in the Middle East, but authorities are urging travelers to be aware of broader regional tensions. With ongoing instability in nearby areas, Oman’s updated travel notice encourages tourists to monitor international developments and avoid public demonstrations or sensitive border zones.
Canada: New Travel Alert Reflects Global Trends
Canada has now joined the growing list of countries urging travelers to exercise increased caution abroad. In its latest update, the government emphasized rising global risks, including political unrest, terrorism threats, and criminal activity in several popular destinations. While not directed at a specific country, the advisory recommends that Canadians remain vigilant, register their travel plans with local embassies, and avoid high-risk regions when possible.
Canada has updated its travel alert for Costa Rica, joining countries like Italy, Brazil, and Mexico, due to heightened concerns over crime and safety risks affecting tourists. The advisory urges travelers to exercise increased caution as part of a broader effort to ensure informed and secure international travel.
What Travelers Should Take Away
The wave of updated travel advisories isn’t meant to discourage tourism — rather, it reflects a changing world where awareness is key to staying safe. Whether exploring Europe’s cultural capitals, Latin America’s vibrant cities, or the scenic coasts of the Caribbean, tourists are being reminded that preparation is just as important as a passport. The key message across all advisories? Stay alert, stay informed, and enjoy your trip — responsibly.
