Protests are scheduled in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney on 9 April to denounce the government wage subsidy program as ineffective for workers affected by COVID-19. According to local media, protesters are planning to drive around the cities from 15:00-18:00 local time. Police will be strictly enforcing social distancing protocols implemented due to COVID-19, possibly resulting in clashes.
On 2 April, five firebombs were reportedly lobbed at the Best Mart outlet located on the ground floor of the Shan King shopping center in Tuen Mun at approximately 02:30 local time. No injuries were reported. It is likely that further related attacks will take place in the coming days. The incident is believed to be in connection to anti-government protests.
Due to COVID-19 also known as the Coronavirus, markets and vendors were instructed to cease business operations. Police were dispatched to enforce these regulations where tear gas and batons were used to disperse individuals who were protesting government mandates.
The U.S. Embassy has suspended consular services until further notice. Enhanced COVID-19 measures will be in effect for the following neighborhoods: Santiago Centro, Independencia, Providencia, Ñuñoa, Las Condes, Vitacura, and Lo Barnechea, until 9 April.
Travel restrictions due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are impacting travelers attempting to return to the United States. To date 700 citizens have returned to the US under repatriation flights. While the US Embassy continues to look for additional transport, travelers should remain in their lodging.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced that starting Friday 20 March at midnight, the U.S.-Canada border will be closed to all non-essential travel. The border will be closed until 20 April. The closure of the border is to limit the spread of COVID-19. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S.-Mexico border will also close to non-essential travel, however, a start date was not announced yet.
The situation involving the Coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to evolve and have significant impacts on international travel. The State Department has issued a level 3 Global Health Advisory (reconsider travel). Due to the influx of U.S. citizens returning home, airports such as O’Hare International have experienced significant delays in entry processing. In addition, returning citizens will be subject to a 14-day quarantine.
The President of Brazil has called for nationwide protests on March 15th. While the majority of protesters will be gathering in support of President Bolsonaro, opposition groups will likely counter-protest. Previous events have brought thousands to the streets which may impact transportation and traditional tourist locations.
Due to the rapid spread of COVID-19, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a travel ban from Europe to the U.S., not including the UK. The travel ban will last 30 days beginning from Friday, March 13, 2020 at 11:59 PM. The travel ban restrictions will not apply to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and other protected groups, as well as to flights entering the U.S. before 11:59 PM on March 13. Refer to the US Department of State for a full list of exceptions.
Due to changes in parking regulations at the Toulouse Blagnac International Airport, taxi drivers are planning a blockade on March 16th. Travelers may experience difficulty in finding transport to and from the airport. In addition travelers can expect increased security presence.
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