As the holiday travel season reaches its peak, the Government of Canada is reminding citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting several popular international destinations. The advisories, which are regularly updated by Global Affairs Canada, highlight ongoing security concerns that could affect travellers.
Key Destinations Under Heightened Advisory
The federal government continues to recommend that Canadians exercise a heightened level of vigilance in Mexico and France. These advisories, issued on December 23, 2025, are not blanket warnings against travel but serve as crucial guidance for those planning trips.
For Mexico, the advisory points to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping in various regions. Travellers are advised to remain in tourist areas, be aware of their surroundings, and avoid travelling at night. Similarly, for France, the advisory cites an elevated threat of terrorism, urging Canadians to be particularly vigilant in public places, including tourist sites, transportation hubs, and during major events.
Staying Informed Before You Go
Global Affairs Canada maintains travel advice and advisories for over 230 destinations worldwide. The recommendations are based on a complex risk assessment that considers factors like political instability, crime rates, health concerns, and natural disasters.
Canadians are strongly encouraged to consult the official government travel advisories page before finalizing any international travel plans. This allows them to see the specific risk level for their destination, which ranges from exercising normal security precautions to avoiding all travel.
In addition to checking advisories, travellers should:
- Register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
- Ensure their passports are valid for well beyond their planned return date.
- Make digital copies of important documents like passports and itineraries.
A Proactive Approach to Safe Travel
These holiday season advisories underscore the importance of proactive travel planning. While many trips proceed without incident, being informed of potential risks is the first step in mitigating them. The government's role is to provide the information, while the onus is on individual travellers to heed the advice and take appropriate precautions.
By staying updated on the latest advisories and preparing accordingly, Canadians can make more informed decisions, potentially avoiding dangerous situations and ensuring their holiday travels are as safe and enjoyable as possible.
