Canary Islands: Five people were killed and hundreds were evacuated from their homes on the popular tourist island of Tenerife after major storms caused flash floods and disrupted power throughout the area. Access to the island's main port also was cut off near Santa Cruz, Tenerife's capital. Officials were expected to declare Santa Cruz a disaster area, and cleanup may take weeks. Travelers should confirm reservations and check itineraries before visiting the island, though peak tourist season begins in December. <\/p>\n
Israel: Recent protests in East Jerusalem have increased tension in the area and led to tougher entry regulations into the Old City and onto the Haram al-Sharif\/Temple Mount compound. Officials worry that the new restrictions may lead to further unrest, particularly in the areas of Ras El Amoud, Silwan, Mount of Olives, Issawiya, Wadi El Joz, Lions & Damascus Gates neighborhoods and the Old City. Roadblocks have been set up at major points near the Old City, and the riot gear-clad Israel National Police have a heavy presence in many surrounding areas. Visitors should avoid demonstrations and follow local news for updates. <\/p>\n
India: A female tourist was beaten up, sexually assaulted and robbed Oct. 19 at Baga Beach, one of Goa's most popular tourist destinations. The attack took place as the 23-year-old Russian woman walked along a beach during the start of the area's tourist season. Goa has gained a reputation for being unsafe for tourists in recent years, and women especially should use caution while visiting the area. <\/p>\n
China: Air pollution in Beijing has once again exceeded safe levels, with officials recently reporting that toxic airborne particles were nearly 14 times higher than World Health Organization standards. The pollutant PM2.5 has been linked to major health issues such as heart disease and cancer. Tourists should check air-quality reports before visiting the city and be prepared to use oxygen masks. <\/p>\n
Nepal: A week after deadly storms left more than 40 people dead, officials announced plans to enforce tougher regulations in the Annapurna trekking region, home of the popular 150-mile Annapurna circuit. Among the new rules, trekkers will be required to register before embarking on trips and at checkpoints along the trail. In addition, trekkers will be denied access to the circuit without porters, and only accredited guides with proper training will be permitted to lead treks. <\/p>\n
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, travel.state.gov <\/p>\n
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Storm-ravaged Canary Islands area may take weeks to clean up<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Canary Islands: Five people were killed and hundreds were evacuated from their homes on the popular tourist island of Tenerife after major storms caused flash floods and disrupted power throughout the area. Access to the island's main port also was cut off near Santa Cruz, Tenerife's capital Continue reading