Nov. 04--Indonesia: A volcanic eruption that spewed ash from Mount Rinjani on the island of Lombok caused the international airport on the neighboring island of Bali to temporarily cancel all flights. The Ngurah Rai International Airport was closed for four hours while officials waited for thick ash to clear. Because volcanoes can remain active for a number of days or weeks, travelers should check flight times and be prepared for delays.
Egypt: The U.S. Embassy warned against travel in the Sinai region, including the popular Sharm el-Sheikh resort area, after the Oct. 31 Russian plane crash. ISIS claimed responsibility for the crash, which happened shortly after the plane departed from Sharm el-Sheikh, killing all 224 passengers; an investigation is pending. Violence has grown increasingly common in the North Sinai and the Western desert, and tourists should follow travel advisories before visiting the region.
Mozambique: Nearly 500 cases of cholera have been reported since September, with most of those infected in Nampula province, in the northeastern region of the country. The bacterial infection is caused by ingesting contaminated food or water and by contact with those who are sick. Symptoms can include muscle aches, diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to severe dehydration. Travelers should be diligent about consuming purified water and avoiding undercooked foods.
Nepal: Tense confrontations continue along the border with India, as ethnic Nepalese demonstrators block trucks from crossing into the country, an act of protest against the new constitution that many feel will threaten the rights of minority groups. One protester was killed and several others injured when police opened fire on a blockade at a border crossing Nov. 2. Tourists planning to cross the border, particularly near Birgunj, should use caution and expect delays.
Tanzania: Authorities reported at least three separate incidents involving IEDs, or improvised explosive devices, on the island of Zanzibar since late October. In one incident, two devices exploded in a busy district of Zanzibar City. Officials said the IEDs were planted in response to the country's recent election being annulled and rescheduled because of fraud. Tourists should use vigilance while traveling through the country, particularly in central Stone Town on Zanzibar, and report any suspicious-looking devices.
Compiled from news services and travel sources. For updates, check with the State Department at 888-407-4747, www.travel.state.gov.
Larry Habegger and Dani Burlison are freelance reporters.
