Thailand: Although martial law was lifted April 1, the strict regulations were reinforced later that day through another similar set of laws. Article 44 is a special security measure being enforced by the military and, like martial law, it allows the military to make arrests and conduct searches without warrants. Additionally, public gatherings can still be banned, and unauthorized political gatherings of five or more people can face six-month prison sentences. Tourists should be aware of laws while traveling in the country.
Iceland: Tourists are advised to use caution while visiting Ketubjorg near the Skagafjordur cliffs. The ground at the popular tourist site’s lookout point has developed deep cracks, which have increased the risk of dangerous rock slides. A portion of the area near the cliff has been blocked off, but tourists should also avoid any area with cracks.
United Kingdom: As of April 8, tourists leaving the country via rail services, ferries or the Eurotunnel Le Shuttle vehicle service will undergo new security exit checks. Last instituted in 1998, the exit checks will focus on just 25 percent of travelers in the first few weeks, gradually moving up to checking all travelers by June. The new security enforcements may cause additional delays at points of travel.
Russia: Opposition activists are planning a large protest march in Moscow April 19. The demonstration, called the March of Peace and Freedom, is expected to draw nearly 30,000 people to the streets, starting at Trubnaya Ploshchad and ending at Ploshchad Revolyutsii, near the Kremlin. The city has yet to approve the proposed route, and there may be an alternate. Tourists should be aware of the potential for delayed travel and for unpredictable violence at the march.
Mongolia: Several Chinese tourists were attacked by a group of Mongolian neo-Nazis while visiting the birth and burial site of Genghis Khan in the Khentii Mountains on March 28. The group, Khukh Mongol (Blue Mongolia), claimed to be an environmental organization in 2013 after deciding to no longer use force against foreigners, who they claim are responsible for the country’s economic hardships. Many from Khukh Mongol, however, still wear swastikas, and some continue to harass tourists.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, http://www.travel.state.gov.
Habegger and Burlison are freelance reporters for the Chicago Tribune.
