If you have plans to escape winter in Canada and head to sunnier destinations such as the Philippines, Thailand, or Indonesia, make sure to stay up to date on the latest travel advice.
The Government of Canada publishes regular updates for popular travel destinations like the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia. These advisories aren’t meant to discourage you from travelling to these countries; rather, they’re meant to provide Canadians with the latest information they need to ensure their safety abroad. The government monitors events in these countries and provides updates online.
And if you’re travelling internationally, make sure to sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies Canadian citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home.
So before you pack, here’s what Canada recommends you keep in mind for each destination.
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Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Made up of over 7,000 islands, the archipelago nation has something for every kind of traveller, from fast-paced adventures in the city to slow-paced days exploring beaches and marine life. But when travelling to the Philippines, the Government of Canada urges people to take extra precautions and be aware of possible risks.
Avoid travel to Mindanao, where, although local authorities have demobilized extremist groups, the threat of crime, terrorist attacks, and kidnappings remains. When travelling around the country, make sure to stay vigilant due to the risk of petty crime, spiked food and drinks, fraud, scams, and Internet romance. Demonstrations also take place frequently in Manila and could turn violent. Foreigners aren’t allowed to participate in political activities, which could result in detainment or deportation.
Canadian citizens should also remember that a tourist visa isn’t required for stays of up to 30 days. To extend your stay, you must get proper authorization from local authorities before this period ends.
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Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
With its fantastic cuisine, amazing beaches, and rich culture, Thailand is always a popular choice for tourists looking to escape winter. However, before travelling east, make sure you’re aware of the recent advisory updates.
On Dec. 10, Canada updated its Thailand travel advisory, citing safety and security risks due to tensions along the Thailand-Cambodia border.
“Armed conflict resumed along the Thailand-Cambodia border on Dec. 7, 2025,” reads the statement. “Stemming from a longstanding border dispute, the conflict has expanded and intensified since Dec. 9.”
In addition to avoiding high-risk areas, travellers should be aware of the ongoing threat of terrorism in public places, so make sure to be aware of your surroundings. Demonstrations regularly occur in Bangkok and can turn violent at any time, and can also disrupt public transportation.
Canadians don’t require tourist visas for stays of up to 60 days, but you must submit an application online if you plan to stay longer.
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Risk level: Exercise a high degree of caution
Indonesia is home to over 17,000 islands, making it incredibly diverse in culture, landscapes, and tradition. In addition to its vibrant cuisine, the province of Bali is world-renowned and a regular tourist draw.
But when travelling to Indonesia, it’s important to be aware of potential risks.
Avoid non-essential travel to the provinces of all provinces of Indonesian Papua (except the islands of the Raja Ampat Regency and the city of Sorong in Southwest Papua) due to violence and threats against foreigners by militant groups.
Jakarta also sees regular demonstrations, so make sure to stay away from these events, monitor local media, and follow local authorities. It’s also important to stay vigilant due to the risk of violent crime, petty crime, kidnapping, fraud, romance scams, spiked food and drinks, and threats to women’s safety.
According to the government, motorcycle and scooter accidents are the leading cause of death and injury among foreigners in many parts of Indonesia, including Bali.
If you’re heading to South America, check out the latest updates for Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica.