Canada warns visitors exercise extreme caution in Madagascar due to unresolved political crisis

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in light of the unresolved political crisis and the possibility of the resumption of demonstrations. The situation remains volatile. There was an attempted military coup on November 17, 2010. The government ban on public protests, imposed in April 2009, has not been lifted, but public protests remain a possibility until a credible political agreement to return a legitimate government to power is reached. Should such unrest occur, airports may be closed with little notice and other departure options may be limited. Travellers should ensure that they have adequate supplies of water, food, fuel, money, and medications, and that their documentation remains up to date. Canadians in Madagascar are strongly advised to avoid all demonstrations, even those expected to be peaceful, as they could turn violent without notice. They should adopt personal safety measures and avoid the vicinity of historical monuments in Antananarivo, where violent incidents have occurred. Canadians should also be watchful of suspicious, unaccompanied packages or bags left in public places as there have been intermittent bombings in and around Antananarivo recently. They should monitor the security situation on a regular basis, follow the instructions of local authorities, and ensure that their travel documents are in order. Read article