Published on
November 18, 2025
Australia has added Albania to its most recent round of travel advisories, joining Brazil, China, France, Thailand, Bahrain, Tunisia, and a number of other countries where increasing tensions, frequent protests, and areas of political unrest are making travel conditions unpredictable. In 2025, the update reflects a growing trend observed in several regions: protests that occasionally spill into public squares, transport hubs, and tourist-heavy districts are fuelled by civic frustrations, economic pressures, and government-opposition conflicts. By designating these nations as being under heightened caution, Australia is sending a message to travellers to remain vigilant, stay away from crowds, and be ready for unforeseen disruptions that may impact mobility, security, and access to necessary services.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has issued a series of new travel advisories, warning citizens of potential risks in several countries around the world. The advisories highlight growing concerns over political instability, ongoing protests, and local unrest, as well as severe weather events in certain regions. In this update, we focus on the specific risks faced by travelers heading to Albania, Brazil, China, France, Thailand, Bahrain, Tunisia, and other affected nations.
Albania
Australia has issued a travel advisory for Albania urging citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution.” This is due to the ongoing political unrest and protests, particularly in the capital city of Tirana. While many of the demonstrations are peaceful, the advisory warns that they can escalate into violent confrontations, putting travelers at risk.
Beyond political protests, Albania also faces environmental risks. Severe weather, such as flooding and wildfires, is common in the region, especially during the summer months. Flooding in the northern parts of Albania and extreme temperatures in the south are regular occurrences from December to February. Travelers are advised to monitor local news for updates and avoid affected areas.
Given these concerns, Australian travelers are encouraged to stay alert, particularly in urban areas where protests are likely to occur. The local authorities advise avoiding large public gatherings, and travelers are encouraged to follow local media for real-time updates.
Brazil
Brazil continues to be a country under Australia’s “exercise a high degree of caution” advisory, especially in the wake of large-scale protests and the risk of violence. The upcoming COP30 event in Belem and other cities, including Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, have heightened tensions and created potential disruptions. Protests have often been linked to political corruption and the cost of living, and these have escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and police forces.
Additionally, Brazil faces risks of rising violent crime, especially in its larger cities like Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Mugging, armed robbery, and carjacking are frequent occurrences, particularly during festivals like Carnival. Travelers are advised to stay vigilant in crowded tourist spots and avoid traveling alone at night.
The advisory also mentions the increased number of methanol poisoning cases related to alcohol consumption. Australians traveling to Brazil are advised to be cautious when consuming alcoholic beverages and avoid drinking in unregulated venues.
China
Australia has also issued a heightened travel advisory for China, urging citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” due to political instability and security risks. While the country is known for its strong control over public demonstrations, incidents of civil unrest and protests do occasionally occur, particularly in regions like Hong Kong, Tibet, and Xinjiang.
Of particular concern is the risk of arbitrary detention. Australia warns that foreign nationals, especially Australians, could be at risk of arrest under China’s broadly defined National Security Laws. These laws allow for the detention of individuals without clear charges or trial, making it important for travelers to understand the potential legal risks they may face.
In addition to political instability, China is also vulnerable to natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons. The southern and eastern coastal regions, in particular, experience frequent typhoons from May to November, which can disrupt travel plans and cause significant damage.
France
France remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, but recent travel advisories highlight risks related to terrorism and ongoing strikes. The French government has raised its national terrorist alert to its highest level, as terrorist groups have targeted public places and events. Australians are advised to be cautious around major tourist attractions, transport hubs, and public gatherings.
In addition to the terrorism threat, France experiences frequent strikes, particularly in Paris and other major cities. These strikes often disrupt public transport, leading to delays, cancellations, and closures. In some cases, strikes have turned violent, and there have been confrontations between protesters and police.
For Australian travelers, the advice is to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, as they can quickly escalate. Travelers are also urged to be cautious with their belongings, as thefts, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, are common in crowded tourist areas.
Thailand
Thailand has long been a popular destination for Australian travelers, but the political situation in the country has become increasingly unstable. Ongoing protests and occasional violence between government forces and opposition groups have led to heightened tensions. The Australian government has advised against traveling to certain provinces in the south of Thailand, particularly Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, where insurgent activities and terrorism are a threat.
In addition to the political unrest, Thailand faces risks from civil unrest in the form of anti-government protests. While the protests are generally concentrated in urban areas, particularly Bangkok, they have the potential to disrupt daily life and affect the safety of travelers.
Australia’s travel advisory also notes the risk of natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes, which can impact the country’s infrastructure. Travelers are advised to keep informed of local conditions and to avoid areas that are vulnerable to flooding during the monsoon season.
Bahrain
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Persian Gulf, has seen its share of political unrest in recent years, primarily driven by tensions between the ruling government and opposition groups. While the country has been relatively peaceful in recent years, the Australian government has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to exercise a high degree of caution, particularly in light of ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
The advisory highlights the risk of terrorism and violent protests, which have occasionally occurred in the capital, Manama, and surrounding areas. Demonstrations against the government have sometimes turned violent, with clashes between security forces and protesters. As a result, Australian travelers are advised to avoid public gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.
Travelers should also be aware of the ongoing security situation in the region, which could lead to disruptions in air travel, as well as sudden changes in local security conditions.
Tunisia
Tunisia is another country where the Australian government has issued a high-caution travel advisory, due to ongoing political instability and the risk of terrorism. The country has faced a number of political protests in recent years, and tensions are particularly high in the wake of economic challenges and political deadlock.
Tunisia is also at risk of attacks by extremist groups, particularly in tourist areas and in regions near the border with Algeria. The country’s southern and western areas, including the Mount Chaambi and Mount Mghila ranges, have seen significant terrorist activity in the past, and the Australian government advises against traveling to these regions.
In addition to political instability and terrorism risks, Tunisia is also prone to disruptions caused by civil unrest and strikes. Travelers are urged to stay alert and avoid public demonstrations, which can turn violent. The Australian government also notes that Tunisia’s state of emergency, which has been extended multiple times, grants the security forces special powers, further heightening the risks for travelers.
Australia’s new travel advisory is a critical reminder to travelers about the risks associated with visiting certain countries, including ongoing protests, political instability, and the potential for local unrest. The advisories for Albania, Brazil, China, France, Thailand, Bahrain, Tunisia, and other nations highlight the need for vigilance and careful planning.
While many of these countries remain popular travel destinations, it’s essential for Australians to stay informed about the local situation and take necessary precautions. Whether it’s avoiding protests, staying clear of politically unstable areas, or preparing for the effects of severe weather, travelers must be proactive in ensuring their safety.
With new reports highlighting escalating protests and local unrest throughout these countries, Australia has placed Albania on the same travel warning list as Brazil, China, France, Thailand, Bahrain, and Tunisia. Growing political tensions and unexpected disruptions that endanger the safety of visiting tourists are reflected in the advisory.
For those planning to visit these destinations, it is recommended to frequently check the Australian government’s Smartraveller website for the latest updates and advice on travel safety.
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