Bahamas: The U.S. Embassy in Nassau released an advisory warning of increased crime across the country. Most notable were the sexual assaults of at least three American women by water scooter operators on Paradise Island in recent months. In addition to sexual assaults, in which at least one victim was a minor, some tourists have been violently robbed or kidnapped. The embassy reported that though Americans are not targeted, crimes in neighborhoods where Americans live and visit have increased significantly.
Portugal: The U.N. health agency reported an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease concentrated in the Vila Franca de Xira suburb of Lisbon. At least five people have died, and more than 200 cases were reported during one week in the country’s biggest outbreak in history. Officials said that drinking water in the area was tested and reportedly free of the bacteria, and water-cooling stations in the region have been closed for disinfection. Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious through contact with infected people but is contracted if the bacteria is present in warm water found in places such as hot tubs, cooling towers, hot water tanks, large plumbing systems or decorative fountains. Symptoms, including coughing, fever and muscle aches, begin two to 14 days after exposure.
Greece: Travelers across the country should be aware of demonstrations planned for Nov. 17, the anniversary of the 1973 protests against the then-ruling junta. Demonstrations will start at 2 p.m. and last into evening. Areas affected include central Athens, between Syntagma Square and the U.S. Embassy; in Thessaloniki, near the U.S. Consulate General; and on and near university campuses throughout the country. American travelers should be aware that the U.S. Embassy in Athens and the Consulate General in Thessaloniki may close early and that past demonstrations have turned violent.
Egypt: Tourists soon will be permitted to once again visit the famed Sphinx monument near Cairo after nearly four years of restoration. The 4,500-year-old limestone monument undergoes regular maintenance because of damage caused by pollution and underground water. Though no opening date has been set for the Sphinx, authorities say that the smallest of the three Great Pyramids of Giza, Menkaure, has reopened after three years of restoration, and a small temple built by Pharaoh Amenhotep II of the 18th dynasty also will open for the first time.
China: Americans eligible for short-term business or tourist visas now may be eligible for multiple-entry visas valid as long as 10 years. Previously, American tourists had to apply annually if visiting the country multiple times, but in an attempt to increase tourism and cultural exchange, both countries have agreed to the reciprocal change. Eligibility criteria and visa processing fees remain the same.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov.
