Smartraveller has released its new travel advice for a range of countries around the world. Check out the updates below:
Taiwan
From 20 February, indoor mask-wearing rules will be relaxed, but travellers still need to wear a mask in all medical facilities and on all public transport. Upon arrival in Taiwan, travellers will have to undertake 7 days of Self-initiated Epidemic Prevention (SEP). The SEP period can be done in a private residence, provided it meets the criteria. A rapid antigen test (RAT) is only necessary for those who develop COVID-19 symptoms during the 7-day SEP (see ‘Travel’).
Rwanda
Smartraveller now advises travellers exercise normal safety precautions overall and exercise a high degree of caution within 10km of the border with Burundi.
Türkiye
Smartraveller advises people reconsider their need to travel to the 10 provinces affected by the earthquakes: Adana, Adıyaman, Diyarbakır, Gaziantep, Hatay, Kahramanmaraş, Kilis, Malatya, Osmaniye, Şanlıurfa due to damage caused by the earthquakes.There’s a state of emergency in these provinces. Only vehicles carrying aid teams and aid materials are allowed to enter provinces inside the area of the disaster. There have been reports of isolated security-related incidents in areas affected by the earthquakes. There’s extensive damage to infrastructure and services, including roads, telecommunications, electricity, water and sanitation in these provinces.
The Hatay and Gaziantep airports have reopened, though travel to and from the affected provinces is extremely limited. The Kahramanmaras airport has suspended passenger flights. There have been some flight cancellations, and there may be further travel disruptions.
Following recent Quran-burning incidents in Europe, retaliatory attacks by terrorists targeting places of worship or areas frequented by Westerners are likely.
Niue
Smartraveller has lowered its travel advice for Niue. It now recommends travellers exercise normal safety precautions.
