Europe
- Spain: Travel Advisory | Air traffic controllers will strike indefinitely across Spain beginning April 17 at 12:01 AM, causing significant disruptions to air travel. Organized by the Union of Air Traffic Controllers, the strike aims to protest the Saerco management group over staff shortages that have led to overworked employees, poor working conditions, and safety concerns. The strike will affect the following airports where Saerco provides air traffic control services: Madrid Cuatro Vientos Airport (QYU); Lanzarote Airport (ACE); Fuerteventura Airport (FUE); La Palma Airport (SPC); El Hierro Airport (VDE); La Gomera Airport (GMZ); Castellon Costa Azahar Airport (CDT); Burgos Airport (RGS); Huesca Pirineos Airport (HSK); Ciudad Real Central Airport (CQM); Vigo-Peinador Airport (VGO); A Coruña Airport (LCG); Jerez Airport (XRY); and Seville San Pablo Airport (SVQ). The strike will likely cause significant delays and cancellations at the affected airports due to limited or no air traffic control staffing. Travelers are advised to anticipate flight delays, diversions, and cancellations at affected airports and to consider alternative modes of transportation, especially when traveling domestically in Spain. Monitor local news, social media, and official airport communications for updates.
- Netherlands: Travel Advisory | A strike of multiple government-worker unions will occur across the Netherlands on April 14, which will cause disruption across multiple sectors. Multiple unions in the Netherlands, including those representing rail workers, airline workers, and other social issues, are calling for the 24-hour strike due to failed negotiations with the government and the 2026 pay freeze. Government services nationwide are expected to be heavily impacted. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to prepare for heavy disruption to transit networks, public services, and possibly health services. Monitor local news and social media for updates.
- Rome, Italy: Health Advisory | Private healthcare unions will strike in Rome, Italy, on April 17. Private healthcare unions will strike due to blocked contracts. The participating unions include Fp Cgil, Cisl Fp and Uil Fpl. The strikes will limit access to healthcare services on April 17 by creating extended delays and wait times. The strike may be accompanied by a protest. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to large crowds in Rome on the day of the strike. Travelers should reconfirm healthcare appointments.
- Lisbon, Portugal: Travel Advisory | Disruptions are expected to metro services in Lisbon, Portugal, over the coming days due to worker strikes. Unionized workers have planned metro strikes starting on April 13 from 11:00 PM to April 15 at 6:30 AM. Protests in conjunction with the strike are likely. The strike is to demand an industrial action to demand safety measures in metro facilities and better working conditions. Travelers are advised to reaffirm metro travel prior to commencing movement and plan alternative means of travel where necessary. Anticipate delays and higher demand for other modes of transport. Travelers should monitor the Lisbon Metro website for updates and status of services.
Americas
- Argentina: Travel Advisory | Flybondi airline staff will strike from April 13 at 2:00 PM to April 14 at 1:59 PM, disrupting flights. The Flybondi Aeronautical Workers Association (ATAF) organized the strike, with pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff expected to participate. Labor actions involving airline staff in Argentina have previously caused widespread flight delays and cancellations, particularly affecting low-cost carriers and domestic routes. Travelers are advised to confirm flight status directly with Flybondi and allow additional time for travel. They should also monitor airline communications and local media for updates.
- Colombia: Health Advisory | Rising numbers of chickenpox cases in Colombia continues to increase infection risk for travelers over the coming weeks. Health authorities report an uptick in varicella (chickenpox) cases since January, with the number of cases so far in 2026 being 15% higher than all last year. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact and can cause fever, fatigue, and an itchy rash. While most cases are mild, complications can occur in unvaccinated individuals and those with weakened immune systems. Travelers are advised to consult with their physician about vaccination prior to travel. They should also practice good hygiene including frequent handwashing.
- Brasília, Brazil: Travel Advisory | Train workers will strike in Brasília, Brazil, on April 15 causing travel delays. Train staff employed by Metro-DF, the Federal District’s train company, rescheduled their strike from March 30 to April 15. They are striking due to low staffing numbers and working conditions. The workers postponed the strike due to negotiations with the government. The strike will impact train services across the city. Travelers are advised to plan alternate means of transportation such as local taxis or rideshare apps. Monitor local media for updates.
- Argentina: Protest Advisory | Expect additional protests across Argentina over the coming weeks over the government’s decision to cut a social program. The Argentine government ended its “Back to Work” program which cut social funding that originated from a COVID-19 relief program. This decision led to a major protest on April 7 that blocked roads and saw protesters gather in key chokepoints of cities. Similar protests are likely to impact national highways and key locations in cities such as General Paz Avenue. Travelers are advised to avoid all protests. They should also monitor local media for updates.
Asia & Pacific
- Cambodia: Security Advisory | Anticipate heightened security during Khmer New Year celebrations across Cambodia from April 14 until April 19. Khmer New Year is a traditional festival in Cambodia signifying the end of the harvest season, during which participants visit temples and gather for cultural dances and water fights. In the capital Phnom Penh, celebrations are scheduled from April 14 to April 19 at Wat Phnom, Vattanak Park, Wat Botum Vatey Park, Riverside Park, Independence Monument, Chaktomuk Walk Street, and Bassac Lane. Large crowds will likely disrupt traffic and there are often increased rates of traffic accidents and driving under the influence during Khmer New Year. Also anticipate an increase in petty crime. Travelers are advised to exercise increased situational awareness in crowds and guard against pickpocketing by keeping bags in front of their person and zippers closed. Reconfirm public transit schedules and maintain vigilance if walking along busy roads.
- Kolkata, India: Security Advisory | The 2026 Kolkata China Film Festival will take place at Nandan Theater in Kolkata, India, on April 17-19. The festival returns after 10 years to promote a cultural exchange between India and China despite rising political tensions between the two countries. Although authorities have not yet confirmed any protests, these tensions could spark demonstrations during the screenings. Expect heightened security around the theater and traffic disruptions. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to depart immediately if they encounter a protest. They should also continue to monitor local media for updates.
- Takayama, Japan: Travel Advisory | The Takayama Spring Festival will create travel disruptions around Takayama, Japan, on April 14 & 15. The festival annually brings in tens of thousands of visitors to see floats and parades. Nagoya train station will likely be crowded as visitors transfer from express trains to the train to Takayama. Alternative forms of transportation will be limited due to increased demand. Travelers are advised to maintain heightened awareness in large crowds. They should also book alternative transportation in advance if they choose not to go by train.
- Sydney and Melbourne, Australia: Protest Advisory | Anti-gender violence activists will hold rallies in Sydney and Melbourne, Australia, on April 18-19. Activists will organize NO MORE rallies in Sydney and Melbourne on April 18-19 focused on gender-based violence awareness and demanding policy reforms from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The demonstrations call for stronger legal protections and government action addressing domestic violence and violence against women. Sydney rallies are expected at Hyde Park and the Domain. Melbourne demonstrations will occur at Federation Square and the State Library forecourt. The rallies are part of a national awareness campaign. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to avoid Hyde Park during the time of the protest. They should also monitor local news for potential alerts and updates.
Africa & Middle East
- Nairobi, Kenya: Protest Advisory | Opposition coalition groups including Azimio la Umoha will stage large scale demonstrations from April 14-17. This will be the effort to fight against government taxation policies, rising cost of living and economic mismanagement. Previous protests in January and February 2026 resulted in violent clashes between thousands of demonstrators and police using tear gas and water cannons. Heavy police deployment is expected across central business districts including Uhrur Park, Kenyatta Avenue and Harambee Avenue. Road closures are also expected from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Travelers are advised to avoid government buildings and central business area. They should also monitor local news for real time updates and leave immediately if tear gas is deployed or confrontation occurs.
- São Tomé and Príncipe: Travel Advisory | Authorities issued a “Reconsider Travel” advisory on April 7 due to social unrest and public health concerns affecting the island nation. Travelers entering the island nation face increased security screening and documentation checks at João Paulo II International Airport. Tourism infrastructure including hotels, restaurants and transportation service may experience disruptions due to political instability and civil disorder. Medical facilities remain strained with limited capacity for treating foreign nationals. The advisory remains in effect from April 13 without a specific end date. Travelers are advised to monitor official government travel advisories before booking. They should also secure comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
- Tunis, Tunisia: Protest Advisory | Taxi drivers will rally near the transport ministry in Tunis, Tunisia, on April 15. This protest will serve as a precursor and a warning before a nationwide strike on April 27. The executive offices of the national trade chambers representing non-scheduled public passenger transport have organized these demonstrations after stalled negotiations with the government on the reduction of operating costs. SafeAbroad travelers are advised to monitor local news and social media for updates on the protest and its duration. Travelers are also advised to prepare for taxi delays and disruptions during this time and are advised to plan alternate means of transportation.
- KuGompo City, South Africa: Protest Advisory | Protestors will rally around East London Magistrates Court in KuGompo City, South Africa beginning on April 15. The rally is expected to last until April 16. The rally is in support of Julius Malema, a member of the National Assembly of South Africa, and was found guilty of a firearm offense in late 2025. He will have his pre-sentencing hearing on April 15. Heightened security will be present around the rally site. Travelers are advised to avoid the protest and plan alternate routes around demonstrations.
