Feb. 02--Iceland: A tourist was badly burned during a visit to popular Geysir, or The Big Geysir, in the southwestern region of the country when he accidentally stepped into one of the site's hot springs. Visitors are advised to stay on the clearly marked paths in the area and to take added precaution if visiting the hot springs on windy days, as the scalding water can be blown across the paths and cause serious burns.
Mexico: Travelers flying into and out of the General Mariano Escobedo International Airport in Monterrey should be aware that Uber drivers are not allowed to legally transport passengers to and from the airport. Instead, travelers are required to use authorized taxis and will be asked to leave any vehicle operated by Uber. Unauthorized fee-based vehicles are subject to fines and may have the vehicle impounded.
Asia: The Lunar New Year falls on Feb. 8 and kicks off the Year of the Monkey with festivities taking place in many Asian countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises all tourists to prepare accordingly when traveling to take part in these celebrations. Preparations may include reviewing road and water safety guidelines, avoiding mosquito bites, bringing a supply of medication, and avoiding contact with birds, pigs or other animals, when relevant. Because of the influx of travelers during this busy time of year, tourists should also prepare for transit delays and crowded tourist sites.
Morocco: Islamic State militants have called for attacks at tourist sites, citing the lack of security forces in the country, including Tunisia, where 38 were killed during an attack in June 2015. Tourists are advised to have plans in place for personal safety and emergencies and to be aware of their surroundings at all times while traveling, particularly in busy tourist destinations.
United Kingdom: Tourists hoping to take a bus to the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water in the Cotswolds will no longer have the option once a new restriction begins. Residents of the village have banned tourist buses as of Feb. 1, citing noise and exhaust fumes as cause for the restriction. The "Venice of the Cotswolds" sees roughly 300,000 visitors each year who arrive for day trips on some 3,000 buses. The ban will certainly hurt business owners who rely on tourist spending for much of their income. The upside for travelers hiring private cars is that the Cotswolds will be less crowded after the ban.
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.
