Exercise Caution in India, Where Uneasy...

Asia

India: Almost a month after the Dec. 6 razing of a mosque by Hindu extremists in the northern city of Ayodhya, calm has returned to India though tensions remain high, according to news reports. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid all demonstrations. More than 1,000 people died during a week of violence after the incident, and curfews were imposed in 135 of India’s cities, including Bombay, Calcutta and Delhi. Travelers should contact the Consular section of the American Embassy in Delhi or the Consulate General in Bombay, Calcutta or Madras for current information on security conditions.

Southeast Asia

Indonesia: A powerful earthquake devastated the island of Flores in eastern Indonesia and sent huge tidal waves onto the nearby island of Babi Dec. 12. More than 2,000 people died. Travel to these islands should be deferred.

Africa

Algeria: Unrest continues in this troubled North African country, where the government banned an Islamic fundamentalist party when it appeared to be on the verge of winning national elections last January. Police battled militants in Algiers Dec. 15, and an overnight curfew was imposed.

Egypt: Government measures to crush Muslim militants responsible for recent attacks on tourists probably have improved security for travelers, but visitors should remain alert to their surroundings at all times.

Kenya: The first multi-party election in 26 years took place last Tuesday without incident, according to news reports as this section went to press. However, a U.S. State Department spokeswoman said visitors should exercise caution and avoid demonstrations.

Mediterranean/Mideast

Corsica: Another anti-French bombing occurred Dec. 14, this time in Conca, in southern Corsica. Police fear the attacks by Corsican nationalists could become more violent because an extremist wing of the Corsican Liberation Front has threatened to target people as well as property if non-Corsicans do not leave the island. Visitors should exercise caution.

Israel: Travel to the West Bank and Gaza should be deferred. Tensions are high there following the Dec. 17 expulsion of more than 400 Palestinians in response to the kidnap and murder of an Israeli policeman by Hamas, a Muslim fundamentalist group.

Latin America

El Salvador: A final peace agreement between the government and rebel forces was signed Dec. 15, and travel is now permitted throughout the country. However, crime is high in many areas, including the capital of San Salvador, beach areas and the road from the capital to the international airport, a distance of about 45 miles. Road travel outside major cities should be avoided after dark due to crime and hazardous roads. Travelers to back-country areas should be especially cautious because of land mines that have not yet been removed.

Mexico: The pollution season is on again in Mexico City, the world’s most polluted city. In winter, a lack of rain and wind allow pollutants to accumulate over this metropolis. Avoid strenuous outdoor activities and follow local reports for pollution alerts.