Spain: Nearly 9 million visitors are expected in Barcelona this year, causing crowding and concerns from locals, particularly in popular areas like the old city, the Antoni Gaudi buildings, Las Ramblas, La Sagrada Familia church and beaches. Some local residents have reportedly been rude or aggressive with tourists or tour guides, and officials are considering levying taxes on cruises to help the city sustain the impact left by the high number of tourists. Travelers should be prepared for overcrowding and a lack of hotel vacancies.
Tunisia: At least 1,000 armed police officers and other security personnel have been deployed to patrol tourist beaches after a deadly terrorist attack June 27 killed at least 38 people at a popular beach in Sousse. Armed security will also be available at hotels, if requested. Nearly half of the tourists visiting the country returned home after the massacre, but the government hopes heightened security will ease safety concerns for those who remain or are planning to visit.
Bulgaria: The first human case of West Nile virus in Bulgaria has been reported in the capital city of Sofia. European health officials said the virus was transmitted locally. The transmission season in Europe is from June to November. West Nile virus symptoms can include fever, headache and body aches, weakness, nausea and vomiting. Extreme cases can cause nervous-system issues such as encephalitis, meningoencephalitis or meningitis.
Montenegro: The U.S. Embassy in the capital city of Podgorica released a security message June 26 after terrorist attacks occurred in Tunisia, France and Kuwait. The announcement pointed to the attacks along with the potential for increased threats from foreign fighters returning to European countries as cause for increased caution while visiting the popular tourist destinations. Tourists are advised to avoid large crowds and to identify safe areas to retreat to in the event of violence or protests.
India: At least 50 people have died while another 420 have been infected with H1N1, or swine flu, so far this year in Kerala. That’s a huge increase from 17 cases and three deaths in the area in all of 2014. Swine flu can be deadly, especially for those with compromised immune systems. Of the 50 deaths in Kerala, more than half had pre-existing health issues such as diabetes or heart ailments. Symptoms can include body aches, fever, dizziness, weakness and difficulty breathing.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, http://www.travel.state.gov.
Larry Habegger and Dani Burlison are freelance reporters.
