Travel Alerts Articles

U.S. State Department Issues New Travel Warning on Kenya

(Dive Travel Business News - Tuesday January 15, 2012) --The U.S. Department of State is warning U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Kenya. The department said it is concerned about continuing and recently heightened threats from terrorism and the high rate of violent crime in some areas. The levels of risk vary throughout the country. The new warning replaces the Travel Warning of July 3, 2012.

The U.S. government continues to receive information about potential terrorist threats aimed at U.S., Western, and Kenyan interests in Kenya. Terrorist acts can include suicide operations, bombings, kidnappings, attacks on civil aviation, and attacks on maritime vessels in or near Kenyan ports. Although the pursuit of those responsible for previous terrorist activities continues, many of those involved remain at large and still operate in the region. read more »

Embassies Urge Phuket: Protect Our Citizens

(Dive Travel Business News - January 14, 2012) -- The British, Canadian and Dutch ambassadors to Thailand have arrived in Phuket to outline their concerns about the "scams and cheats" continuing to plague Phuket's tourism industry.

Although the mission was shrouded in diplomatic-speak, the ambassadors were there to alert local leaders that they are very concerned for the safety of their citizens in Phuket.

The Phuket Gazette reported that British ambassador Mark Kent introduced Phuket governor Maitri Inthusut to the website Phukettuktuks.com, which "lists incident after incident of tourists in Phuket being cheated, scammed and even violently attacked by tuk-tuk and taxi drivers".

"The police are doing their best, but there is a serious shortage of officers in Phuket," said the governor.

In June an Australian travel agent was fatally stabbed in a bungled street robbery in Phuket, while a British tourist was shot dead in a Thai bar popular with backpackers in nearby Koh Phangan on January 1.

Source: Travelmole.com read more »

Southern Philippines Struggling in Aftermath of Typhoon Bopha

(Dive Travel Business News - December 6, 2012) -- At least 325 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 400 still missing after a typhoon hit the southern Philippines. Typhoon Bopha caused havoc in eight provinces but eastern Mindanao was the worst hit. Typhoon Bopha, the strongest storm to hit the country this year, packed winds of 160 mph - equivalent to a category 5 hurricane - when it struck Mindanao on December 2, 2012.

The head of the national disaster agency said 332 people were killed and 379 are missing after Bopha triggered landslides and floods along the coast and in farming and mining towns inland in the southern Mindanao region. Nearly 200,000 people remain in shelters in more than a dozen provinces in the southern Philippines, as officials appeal for food, water and clothing.

Many of the victims were killed when flash floods hit emergency shelters. Roads and bridges have been destroyed and many parts of the country have been left without electricity. The death toll could rise further, with local government officials reporting higher numbers of missing and dead. read more »

Flight Cancelations, Tourist Evacuations as Hurricane Sandy Blows thru Central Caribbean.

Tourists Evacuated as Hurricane Sandy Hits Cuba.

(Dive Travel Business News -- October 25, 2012) --Tens of thousands of tourists and residents have been evacuated from vulnerable areas as Hurricane Sandy hits south-east Cuba. The US National Hurricane Center said Sandy has now strengthened into a category two hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 114 mph reported in Santiago de Cuba, the country's second largest city. read more »

Bali Hotels on High Terror Alert

(Dive Travel Business News - September 3, 2012) -- Bali hotels have again been forced to step up their security and be on high terror alert for the second time this year, after attacks on police in Solo (Surakarta) in central Java early last week. Bali is on high alert to assure the world that the island is safe. The step up in security comes just six weeks before the 10th anniversary of the 2002 Bali bombings considered to be the deadliest act of terrorism in the history of Indonesia.

Head of the Bali tourism office, Kade Subhiksu, has warned managers of all types of accommodation, including star-rated and non-starred hotels, villas, apartments, as well as homestays, to follow strict security measures. read more »

Tropical Storm Isaac heads across Gulf of Mexico, Expected to grow into Hurricane.

(Dive Travel Business News - August 27, 2012) -- Tropical Storm Isaac rolled over the open Gulf of Mexico on Monday, where it was expected to grow into a hurricane before hitting land somewhere between Louisiana and Florida and close to the seventh anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Hurricane warnings have been issued along the northern Gulf Coast from Morgan City, La., to Destin, Fla., including New Orleans and coastal Mississippi. According to the National Hurricane Center, a storm surge between six and 12 feet could threaten the northern Gulf Coast if the storm makes landfall during high tide.

At 2 a.m. ET on Monday, the center of the storm was located about 110 miles west of Key West and 455 miles southeast of the mouth of the Mississippi River, according to the National Hurricane Center. It was moving west-northwest at about 15 mph. The storm had maximum sustained winds of about 65 mph. Isaac is expected to strengthen as it moves out over the open, warm water of the Gulf of Mexico. read more »

One Australian Visitor Dies in Bali Every Nine Days

(Dive Travel Business News - August 9, 2012) -- It's among Australia's most popular overseas holiday destinations - but new figures reveal one Australian dies on Bali every nine days, while hundreds more need consular help after experiencing problems.

Information released by Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs reveals 39 Australians died in Bali in 2011-12. Another 93 sought consular help after being taken to hospital, while 36 were arrested, 18 jailed and eight needed support after being attacked.

Bali has had to deal with its share of problems. The specter of terrorist attacks that killed 202 people over nine years ago has been overshadowed recently by drug busts, bar room brawls, poisoned rice wine and earthquakes. read more »

Phuket to Step Up Night Patrols After Travel Agent Killed on Phuket Fam Trip

(Dive Travel Business News - July 11, 2012) -- TravelMole Asia -- Phuket, Thailand's provincial police commander has ordered all police stations across Phuket to boost patrols in key tourist areas from 9pm to 4am. The move comes in the wake of the killing of 60 year-old Perth, Australia travel agent Michelle Elizabeth Smith and injuries to her colleague, 42 year-old Tammee Lynn, following a bungled bag snatch on the island of Phuket.

The women were part of a group of 10 travel agents visiting Phuket on a familiarization trip to inspect the five-star Katathani Beach Resort. Smith died in front of her Phuket hotel after being stabbed in the heart. It is understood the trip was organized by Asia Escape Holidays. A spokeswoman for Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said Thai police had launched an investigation into the woman's death. Two men are in police custody after admitting to the crime. read more »

Update: Atlantic Hurricane Season 2012

Four Storms so far in Atlantic Hurricane Season 2012

(Dive Travel Business News - July 10, 2012) -- This year's Atlantic Hurricane Season began June 1, 2012 and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted a less active season compared to recent years.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center says there’s a 70 percent chance of nine to 15 named storms (with top winds of 39 mph or higher), of which four to eight will strengthen to a hurricane (with top winds of 74 mph or higher) and of those one to three will become major hurricanes (with top winds of 111 mph or higher, ranking Category 3, 4 or 5). Based on the period 1981-2010, an average season produces 12 named storms with six hurricanes, including three major hurricanes.

While the overall trend toward is toward stormier seas since 1995, three factors are expected to limit hurricane formation:

1. Strong wind shear, which should tamp down hurricane formation.
2. Cooler sea surface temperatures in the far eastern Atlantic, where storms are often given life.
3. The potential for an El Nino in the Pacific, which tends to limit Atlantic hurricane activity. read more »

Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season 2012 Off to a Busy Start

(Dive Travel Business News - July 8, 2012) -- The Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season has gotten off to a busy and early start of the season. So far there have been 5 named storms, including 3 that have turned into hurricanes.

The season was scheduled to officially start on May 15, 2012, but started one day early when Tropical Storm Aletta unofficially kicked-off Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season on May 14. Aletta reached maximum sustained winds of 65 kph located about 650 mi south-southwest of Acapulco, Mexico before dissipating further out to sea.

Hurricane Bud began off Panama on May before moving northward to the western coast of Mexico. On May 24, Bud intensified into a Category 3 major hurricane before weakening to a strong tropical storm, as it began making landfall on Western Mexico.

On June 13, Tropical Storm Carlotta gathered strength turning into a Cat 2 Hurricane before it weakened and made landfall near Puerto Escondido, Mexico. read more »

Caribbean Vulnerable to Earthquakes and Tsunamis, Expert Says.

(Dive Travel Business News - July 8, 2012) -- The past 24 hours has been a busy time for the northern Caribbean: The Dominican Republic has experienced a 5.1 submarine earthquake followed by four smaller quakes while Puerto Rico has experienced four earthquakes ranging from 2.6 - 3.1 on the Richter scale.

As a result of increased seismic activity, in May 2012 Wendy Watson-Wright, Assistant Director-General of the Intergovernmental Oceanic Commission (IOC) of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has urged the Caribbean's 40 million people and its 22 million annual tourists to take the threat of a tsunami seriously as it is a case of "when and not if" the region will be struck by the giant waves triggered by earthquakes and volcanic activity. read more »

A 5.1 Earthquake Shakes Up Anguilla.

(Dive Travel Business News - July 5, 2012) -- Anguilla, W.I. -- A 5.1 magnitude earthquake just off Anguilla shook the island and other parts of the northern Leeward Islands late yesterday afternoon, creating a scare for some residents in the British territory, but there were no reports of damage or injuries in the region. The quake was felt in St. Maarten, St. Kitts & Nevis and Antigua.

While there is no danger to travelers, it is important to note that this is the most recent in a string of earthquakes that have shaken up various parts of the Caribbean this year: Recent activity centers around the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, but activity extends to the Virgin Islands, and the northern Leeward Islands. Puerto Rico alone has registered 113 earthquakes in the past year according to EarthquakeTrack.com. read more »

Costa Concordia Capsizes in Europe's Largest Marine Park

Costa Concordia Runs Aground, Keels Over on Italy's West Coast.

(Dive Travel Business News - January 16, 2012) -- Scores of Italian cave-rescue divers from the coast guard, navy and firefighting service are racing against time to find survivors in the debris-filled partially sunken Costa Concordia since it ran aground on rocks off Italy's west coast. Divers are searching the miles of submerged corridors and more than 1000 cabins for 25 passengers and 4 crew members still unaccounted for after 3200 passengers and 1000 crew were rescued from the hull-torn ship off the coast of Isola del Giglio. The waters off Giglio, popular with scuba divers and snorkelers, form part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park - a marine protected area for dolphins, porpoises and whales. read more »

Travel Alert to Mexico Remains in Effect

(Dive Travel Business News - December 6, 2011) -- The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) updated its travel warnings to Mexico on December 5, 2011. While most major tourist areas have not been affected by the extreme levels of violence in the northern border region, travelers to Mexico should exercise a high degree of caution due to a deteriorating security situation in many parts of the country.

it is highly advisable to travel to Mexico by air (please refer to our official warning for the Mexico-United States border below). High levels of criminal activity, as well as occasional demonstrations and protests, remain a concern throughout the country.
Presidential elections are scheduled for July 1, 2012. In the period leading up to and during the elections, Canadians are advised to remain vigilant, avoid large crowds and demonstrations, exercise caution, follow the advice of local authorities, and monitor local media. read more »

US State Dept. Continues Travel Alert for Southern Philippines.

US State Dept. Issues Travel Alert for Philippines.

(Dive Travel Business News - January 9, 2012) --

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of terrorist activity in the Philippines. This Travel Warning replaces the Travel Warning dated June 14, 2011, and reflects continuing threats due to terrorist and insurgent activities.

U.S. citizens should exercise extreme caution if traveling to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago (southern Philippines). Regional terrorist groups have carried out bombings resulting in injuries and death. Sporadic clashes have occurred between criminal groups and the Philippine Armed Forces throughout Mindanao, particularly in rural areas. U.S. government employees must receive authorization from the Embassy to travel to Mindanao or the Sulu Archipelago. read more »

Bali Registers 6.1 Magnitude Earthquake

(Dive Travel Business News - October 13, 2011) -- A 6.1 magnitude earthquake shook the island dive destination of Bali at 10:16 am Central Indonesia time on Thursday, October 13. The quake caused no deaths and only minor injuries to about 50 people, in part because of the better development standards the tourist industry has pushed, say observers.

The US Geological Survey reported that the quake’s center lay 62 miles south of Denpasar in Southern Bali, and 21 miles beneath the ocean floor and it did not have the potential to trigger a tsunami. Although powerful enough to shake ceiling tiles loose and crumble the walls of Hindu temples, the jolt did not trigger a tsunami warning. But the quake was felt in East Java to Bali’s west, from Banyuwangi to Surabaya and to its east to the island of Lombok. read more »

South Pacific Cyclone Season 2012

(Dive Travel Business News - December 30, 2011) -- While tropical cyclones in the South Pacific may occur throughout the year, the U.S. Department of State advises travelers that the South Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season began on November 1 and ends April 30. Travelers to the region should monitor local weather reports and take other appropriate action as needed. read more »

Travel Alert Continues for Egypt: Election Upheaval, Civil Unrest

Travel Alert Continues for Egypt: Ongoing Election Upheaval, Civil Unrest

(Dive Travel Business News - January 2, 2012) -- Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to Egypt, except for Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and the main tourist centres of Luxor and Aswan, due to the unpredictable security situation and continuing demonstrations throughout the country. read more »

New Travel Warning for Thailand.

(Dive Travel Business News - January 7, 2012) -- The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has issued new travel advice for flood-hit Thailand. The last six months have been a difficult time for the Far Eastern nation, with excessive monsoon rains leaving many areas under water – and new downpours in the southern regions have led to the FCO publishing a new travel warning.

Recent downpours have caused mudslides in the south, and dangerously swollen seas in the Gulf of Thailand. Heavy rainfall has caused landslides and flooding in some districts of the far southern provinces of Narathiwat, Yala, Pattani, Songkhla, Phattalung, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Chumphon, Trang and Krabi. The west coast region of Krabi, in particular, is a significant destination for sun-seekers, who come for beaches that can often be quieter than more popular areas such as Phuket.

Last week saw the official death toll from the floods rise above 800, with Thailand’s head of state King Bhumibol Adulyadej decrying the chaos caused by the rising waters. read more »

Hurricane Rina Churns Towards Mexico's Caribbean

Hurricane Rina churns towards Cozumel, Cancun

(Dive Travel Business News - October 26, 2011) -- Mexico issued a hurricane watch along the Yucatan coast and readied 1,130 storm shelters in Quintana Roo, the state that includes Cancun and Cozumel. Authorities are evacuating fishing communities on Mexico’s resort-studded Caribbean coast and some tourists began to leave, as Hurricane Rina took aim at Cancun and the island of Cozumel on Wednesday.

Rina’s maximum sustained winds remained steady at about 110 mph (175 kph) early Wednesday, said the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami, making it a Category 2 storm. Forecasters predict it will strengthen as it nears the Mexican coast Wednesday night before rolling over the island of Cozumel, a popular dive spot and cruise-ship port, then along the coast to Cancun.

State Tourism Director Juan Carlos Gonzalez Hernandez said there were about 83,000 tourists in the state, with about 45,000 of those on a stretch of coast south of Cancun that includes Tulum and Playa de Carmen, and almost 28,000 in Cancun. read more »

Bangkok's Domestic Airport Closed Due to Flooding

(Dive Travel Business News - October 26, 2011) -- Flooding in Thailand has closed Don Muang Airport, the country’s domestic airport, but the international airport, Suvarnabhumi, is assuming the domestic flights. The airport might remain closed for a week, until Tuesday Nov. 1st. The floods across Southeast Asia that began in July 2011, due to unusually heavy Monsoon rains, have taken the lives of some 800 people and displace many more. Floods have wreaked havoc on almost a third of Thailand.

Due to heavy rainfall in the past months, large parts of the Central Plains north of Bangkok are flooded. This water has to be drained southwards, past Bangkok, to the Gulf of Siam. This run-off has now reached the northern outskirts of Bangkok, where several flood gates have been opened, causing some canals in the northern districts of Bangkok to overflow. Roads in the area are inundated with 20 to 40 centimeters of water and the local districts are controlling the situation from deteriorating any further. Nonthaburi, on the Northwestern banks of Chao Phraya River, has been hit hardest with even higher levels of water. read more »

Bangkok braces for flooding - Thailand, Cambodia, Laos affected by Worst Flooding in a Decade.

Travelers to Thailand, Laos, Camobodia affected by Worst Flooding in a Decade.

(Dive Travel Business News October 21, 2011) -- Some of the worst flooding in decades has gripped Southeast Asia, and is inching its way towards Bangkok, news outlets reported on Thursday. Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on Thursday acknowledged that it was becoming increasing difficult to control floodwater approaching the Thai capital due to the sheer amount of water, the Associated Press reported. read more »

Pacific Typhoon Season

(Dive Travel Business News - July 5, 2011) -- Typhoons in East Asia and the West and Central Pacific regions north of the Equator may occur year-round however historically, the most active Pacific typhoon months are June through November, with peak months from August to October corresponding to Atlantic Hurricane Season. This basin features the most globally intense storms on record. The area just northeast of the Philippines is the most active place on Earth for tropical cyclones to exist. The most frequently impacted areas of the Philippines by tropical cyclones are northern Luzon and eastern Visayas where cyclone season peaks in September. read more »

Global Travel Alert Issued by U.S. State Dept.

(Dive Travel Business News - Sept 3, 2011) -- With the approaching 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C., the U.S. government not surprisingly is alerting the public to the potential for another attack timed around the anniversary. On Sept. 2, the U.S. Department of State issued a travel alert informing U.S. citizens traveling or residing abroad of the continued threat posed by al-Qaeda and its affiliates.

“While we have not identified any specific threats from al-Qaeda affiliates and allies to attack the United States or our interests on the 9/11 anniversary,” the State Department said, “U.S. citizens should be aware that al-Qaeda affiliates and allies have demonstrated the intent and capability to carry out attacks against the United States and our interests around the world.” read more »

Trinidad Extends State of Emergency

Trinidad invokes State of Emergency in response to Cocaine War

(Dive Travel Business News - Sept 6, 2011) -- In an effort to combat drug-related violence, Trinidad has extended its sate of emergency (SOE) and curfew for three more months. A nightly 8-hour curfew was first imposed on Aug 21, 2011 in direct response to a wave of violent crime linked to drug trafficking that included the murder of 11 people over a 48-hour period. Government security forces had already been fighting the illegal drug trade, that culminated in a multi- million-dollar bust at the island's international airport in last month.

Trinidad is a major transhipment point of cocaine. Colombian and Mexican drug dealers who had been fighting for drug turf locally were set to go on a bloodbath, following the seizure of cocaine worth $22 million at Piarco International Airport on August 16, five days before the declaration of the state of emergency. read more »

Understanding the Mexico Travel Alert

(Dive Travel Business News May 27, 2011) -- The most recent U.S. State Department alert, issued April 22, expanded the areas in Mexico that are experiencing drug-cartel-related violence and advised U.S. travelers to exercise caution in visiting some parts of Mexico. One of the more confusing things about the State Department’s warning was that it sometimes named cities, sometimes states,sometimes vaguely delineated portions of states, sometimes roads, routes or border areas: The result leaves many travelers with the impression that entire states posed a security risk for visitors. read more »

UK Foreign Office Warns of Travel to Costa Rica

(Dive Travel Business News - May 28, 2011) -- The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office has published an official warning about the increasing number of missing people in Costa Rica on its travel advice website

The new text includes the line: "Eight foreign nationals (including one British national) have gone missing in the last two years, with some related to criminal activity."

The change comes in response to a letter from the Dixon family to Foreign Secretary William Hague.

Minister of State Jeremy Browne said in a reply to the Dixons on 12 May: "Violent crime against tourists is increasing. The recent increase in the number of foreign nationals missing in Costa Rica is also worrying."

David Dixon said: "There is a common misperception that Costa Rica is a safe place to go on holiday. While it is a beautiful country, travellers need to be aware of the increasing number of tourist disappearances and exercise a much greater degree of caution." read more »

U.S. State Department Issues Global Travel Warning for Americans.

U.S. State Department Issues a Worldwide Travel Warning for Americans.

(Dive Travel Business News - May 5, 2011) -- The State Department issued a worldwide travel warning for Americans after President Barack Obama announced the death of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan.

"Given the uncertainty and volatility of the current situation, U.S. citizens in areas where recent events could cause anti-American violence are strongly urged to limit their travel outside of their homes and hotels and avoid mass gatherings and demonstrations," the State Department said in a worldwide travel warning issued early Monday. "U.S. citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times."

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security expects "threats of retaliation" from al Qaeda in the aftermath of Osama bin Laden's death, a department official told CNN early Monday. read more »

Iceland Volcano Erupts Affecting Travel to/from Scotland

(Dive Travel Business News - May 24, 2011) -- Iceland’s Grimsvotn volcano, which lies beneath the ice of the uninhabited Vatnajokull glacier in southeast Iceland - about 120 miles east of the capital, Reykjavik - began erupting Saturday May 21, 2011 for the first time since 2004. It was the volcano's largest eruption in 100 years. read more »

NOAA Forecasts Atlantic Hurricane Season 2011

Above-average Atlantic Hurricane Season Predicted for 2011

(Dive Travel Business News - May 22, 2011) -- The National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration anticipates an active 2011 Atlantic hurricane season with between 12 and 18 named storms predicted. The 2011 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and ends November 30.

The waters the waters in the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean and tropical Atlantic continue with above-average temperatures, which is an underlying reason for an above-average number of potential storms. NOAA forecasts that between six and ten of the storms will strengthen into Category 1 hurricanes (winds at least 74 mph), and three to six storms will become major hurricanes with winds of at least 111 mph (at least Category 3).

Last year’s season was one of the busiest on record with 19 named storms, including 12 hurricanes. NOAA’s forecast in 2010 was 14 to 23 named storms, eight to 14 hurricanes and three to seven major storms.

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Travel Warning to Egypt

Foreign governements issue travel warnings to Egypt

(Dive Travel Business News - January 30, 2011) - Today, the U.S. State Department recommends that U.S. citizens avoid travel to Egypt due to ongoing political and social unrest. Other countries have filed similar advisories. A government travel warning is a serious action that usually triggers cancelations by airlines and tour operators and also affects certain types of travel-insurance coverage.

Violent demonstrations have occurred in several areas of Cairo, Alexandria and other parts of the country, disrupting road travel between city centers and airports. U.S. citizens currently in Egypt should consider leaving as soon as they can safely do so. Cairo airport is open and operating, but flights may be disrupted and transport to the airport may be disrupted due to the protests. Travelers should remain in contact with their airlines or tour operators concerning flight schedules, and arrange to arrive at the airport well before government-imposed curfew hours (4pm - 8am). Tourists are experiencing disruptions in communications, including internet service. read more »

Travel Alert Issued for South Korea's Northwestern Islands

Travel Alert in S. Korea hasn't stop diving to popular Jeju Island

(Dive Travel Business News - December 2, 2010) -- The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is advising against all travel to the North-Western Islands (including Yeonpyeong-do, Daecheong-do and Baengnyeong-do) in South Korea due to rising tensions on the Korean peninsula,

Travelers to South Korea are advised to be vigilant, monitor ongoing developments, and follow the advice of local authorities. Travelers should exercise caution, avoid areas where demonstrations are being held and avoid confrontations with protestors as political, labour, and student demonstrations and marches can become confrontational or violent.

Just as South Korea was taking a few steps forward in realizing its ambition to become a global tourist destination, nuclear-armed North Korea's saber-rattling is threatening to set back those aspirations. On Nov. 23, North Korea fired multiple rounds of artillery shells at the island of Yeonpyeong, killing four people and injuring several more. An evacuation order has been declared for Yeonpyeong-do. The mounting tensions caused the Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq stock markets to plunge precipitously on Nov 24, 2010. read more »

2010 Atlantic Hurricane Season Officially Over.

(Dive Travel Business News - December 1, 2010) -- The six-month Atlantic hurricane season that started June 1 and ended yesterday on November 30 was one of the most active ever recorded. The National Hurricane Center has characterized the past season as a "gentle giant."

In addition to 21 tropical depressions, the hyperactive 2010 Atlantic Hurricane season produced 19 named storms (tying for third alongside 1995 and 1887). Twelve of this year's named storms became hurricanes including five major hurricanes of Category 3 or above, defined by sustained winds between 111 and 130 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. Only 1933 (21 storms) and 2005 (a record 28 storms) were more active. But with 12 actual hurricanes, the 2010 season ties with 1969 for second most hurricanes. read more »

Travel Warning to Mexico - Update

US State Dept. Updates Warning on Travel to Mexico

(Dive Travel Business News - November 10, 2010) -- The US State Dept. updated its travel warning to Mexico on Sept 10, 2010 and the warning remains in effect with no changes. The State Dept. begins its warning by saying:

Millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year. This includes tens of thousands who cross the border every day for study, tourism or business and at least one million U.S. citizens who live in Mexico.

The Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect U.S. citizens and other visitors to major tourist destinations. Resort areas and tourist destinations in Mexico do not see the levels of drug-related violence and crime reported in the border region and in areas along major drug trafficking routes.

Nevertheless, crime and violence are serious problems. While most victims of violence are Mexican citizens associated with criminal activity, the security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well. read more »

Monsoons Create Severe Flooding and Landslides in Thailand

(Dive Travel Business News - November 10, 2010) -- This is a travel alert issued by the Canadian Government last updated on November 10, 2010).

Heavy monsoon rains have resulted in severe flooding and landslides in much of central, north-eastern and southern Thailand, which has caused over 180 deaths. Some areas have experienced serious disruptions to transportation infrastructure, electricity supply, and communications. read more »

Travel Warning Continues in Ecuador

(Dive Travel Business News - November 15, 2010) -- This is a travel warning from the Canadian Government for travel to Ecuador, last updated November 12, 2010.

A state of emergency continues in Quito. Although civil liberties have not been suspended, the police and army have set up checkpoints throughout and surrounding areas. Travelers should exercise an extremed degree of caution and are reminded that it is Ecuadorian legal requirement to carry identification on them at all times.

The hotel zones in Quito are often targeted by thieves and muggers. Avoid walking alone, especially women, and avoid traveling after dark. Do not show signs of affluence and keep any electronic equipment out of sight. Ensure that personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are kept secure at all times. read more »

Hurricane Tomas Weakens as it Leaves Caribbean

(Dive Travel Business News - November 7, 2010) -- A weakened Hurricane Tomas moved into the open Atlantic Ocean, about 525 miles southwest of Bermuda on Sunday. After declining to tropical storm status after causing flooding across several regions of earthquake-ravaged Haiti on Saturday, the storm’s winds fell to 60 mph. According to international press reports, the storm avoided Haiti’s largest homeless encampments, located around the capital of Port au Prince. Roughly 1.3 million people remain homeless following the Jan. 12 earthquake. Tomas did not cause loss of life or significant damage in Cuba, according to reports, and largely bypassed the Turks & Caicos. read more »

St. Lucia Reopens to Tourists

(Dive Travel Business News - November 03, 2010) -- St. Lucia's airports in the north and south of the island are “fully operational” in the aftermath of Category 1 Hurricane Tomas last weekend, and the island will resume tourism activities on Nov. 5 -- a week earlier than previously forecast.

Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport on the island’s north end are open, and American Eagle has increased services at George F.L. Charles Airport to move passengers previously delayed between San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Lucia. Electricity has been restored to 80 percent of the island while power will flow to 90 percent of the country by this weekend. Most resorts currently have adequate water, and water supply “should be restored in short order after detailed inspections revealed damage to the water dam is substantially less than expected,” Allen Chastanet, St. Lucia's Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister. read more »

US State Dept Updates Travel Warning to Mexico

US State Dept - Continued alert for areas of Mexico

(Dive Travel Business News - Sept 11, 2010) -- The U.S. Department of State has issued an updated travel warning to inform U.S. citizens traveling to and living in Mexico about the security situation in that country.

Recent violent attacks and persistent security concerns have prompted the U.S. Embassy to urge U.S. citizens to defer unnecessary travel to Michoacán and Tamaulipas, to parts of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, Durango, and Coahuila, and to advise U.S. citizens residing or traveling in those areas to exercise extreme caution. Of particular concern are the northern Mexico border cities of Tijuana, Nogales, Ciudad Juarez, Nuevo Laredo, Monterrey and Matamoros.

The State Department said millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year. This includes tens of thousands who cross the border every day for study, tourism or business and at least one million U.S. citizens who live in Mexico. The department said the Mexican government makes a considerable effort to protect U.S. citizens and other visitors to major tourist destinations. read more »

Gulf, Florida and the Keys Suffering from Glaring Misperceptions about the Oil Spill

(Dive Travel Business News - August 10, 2010) -- A recent study by online travel company Travelocity reports that the misperceptions about the Deep Horizon Oil Spill on Gulf Coast travel plans may take far longer for the travel industry to fix by press releases alone.

There has been progress in stopping the leak in the Gulf since the well was capped several weeks ago: The outflow of oil appears to have stopped and the process of permanently sealing the well may be complete with the next ten days.

Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and northwest Florida have all experienced oiled shorelines. Beaches have been cleaned up and are monitored daily. The vast majority of beaches is now open to the public.

Current projections by scientists in the field indicate it is very unlikely that the Western Gulf Coast, South Florida, the Florida Keys, and the East Coast will experience any effects from the remaining oil on the surface of the Gulf.

However, the online travel agency's recently conducted poll of over 2,000 Americans found that many travelers believe the oil has spread far beyond its actual reach. read more »

NOAA Still Predicts Busy Fall for Hurricanes

NOAA reiterates prediction for busy hurricane season 2010

(Dive Travel Business News - August 9, 2010) -- The first two months of the 2010 hurricane season only saw three named storms in the Atlantic basin, yet National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) this week reiterated its early June forecast that it could still end up being one of more active hurricane season on record in the region.

NOAA's updated forecast for 2010 calls for 14 to 20 named storms in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Of those named storms, 8 to 12 should become hurricanes, including 4 to 6 "major" hurricanes, with wind speeds above 111 mph, NOAA reports. An average Atlantic hurricane season sees 11 named storms, including six hurricanes, with two becoming major hurricanes.

Tropical storms are given a name when wind speeds reach 39 mph, and are upgraded to hurricane status when sustained winds reach 74 mph.

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Travel Alert: Pacific Typhoon Season

(Dive Travel Business - July 19, 2010) -- This Travel Alert is a reminder to travelers to East Asia and the West and Central Pacific region about the ongoing threat of typhoons originating in the West and Central Pacific region. This alert was first published on June 16, 2010 by the US State Department:

"The region covered by this alert includes countries in East Asia and the West and Central Pacific regions north of the Equator. Typhoons in this area of the Pacific may occur year round; however, historically, the most active months are June through November. U.S. citizens in the region should monitor local weather reports and take appropriate action as needed. This travel alert expires on December 1, 2010. read more »

Travel Warning to Thailand Continues

(Dive Travel Business News - July 19, 2010) -- The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade advises travelers to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Thailand. Large-scale political demonstrations marked by violence, unrest, and rioting occurred in Bangkok from March 12 to May 25, 2010 resulted in deaths and injuries. read more »

Travel Alert Update: Jamaica

US State Dept. Travel Alert Update for Jamaica

(Dive Travel Business News - July 19, 2010) -- This travel alert is issued by the US State Department and is an update of the travel alert for Jamaica issued on May 23, 2010. read more »

Iceland Volcano Update

Iceland Eyjafjallajökull volcano dormant for now

(Dive Travel Business News - May 23, 2010) -- The latest status report issued by the Icelandic Met Office and Institute of Earth Sciences, University of Iceland.Scientific says the Eyjafjallajökull volcano "appears to be dormant" although it is too early to say it's completely over. Latest scientific readings show little eruption activity, with tremors decreasing and the temperature inside the crater dropping to 100C. The volcano is currently producing a considerable amount of steam but no magma and ash. read more »

NOAA Site Gives Daily Updates on Oil Spill Response

NOAA Response to Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

(Dive Travel Business News - June 9, 2010) -- The National Oceanic and Atmostpheric Administration (NOAA) provides daily emergency response updates through for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Visit its Response & Restoration site for further details.

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Hurricanes & The Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill

(Dive Travel Business News - June 7, 2010) -- Hurricane Season is in its first week and reports are in that the first Eastern Pacific Hurricane could cross over to the Gulf of Mexico. While forecasters predict there is only a 10% chance that this hurricane could hit the Oil Spill reason, the question remains - what happens when a hurricane hits the oil spill?

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has prepared a Hurricane & The Oil Spill FAQ to address the very real question. According to NOAA, the good news is that the high winds and seas will mix and “weather” the oil which can help accelerate the biodegradation process. Also, a hurricane passing to the east of the slick could drive the oil away from the coast. The bad news is that a hurricane passing west of the slick could drive the oil spill to the coast line. read more »

Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Predictions 2010

(Dive Travel Business News - June 7, 2010) -- NOAA's 2010 Eastern Pacific Hurricane Season Outlook indicates a 75% chance of a below-normal season, a 20% chance of a near-normal season, and a 5% chance of an above normal season. See NOAA definitions of above, near-, and below-normal seasons.

The eastern Pacific hurricane region covers the eastern North Pacific Ocean east of 140^oW north of the equator. This outlook is based on the analysis and prediction of two main climate signals:
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Travel Warning Update for Thailand

(Dive Travel Business News - May 31, 2010) -- The Department of State warns U.S. citizens traveling to and residing in Thailand of ongoing political demonstrations and unrest in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. Due to recent violence in central Bangkok, demonstrations in Chiang Mai, and other incidents throughout Thailand, the Department of State recommends against non-essential travel to Thailand at this time. This replaces the Travel Warning dated May 15, 2010, to provide updated information on the security situation in Thailand. read more »

US State Dept. Travel Alert to S. Africa

US State Dept. Travel Warning to S. Africa

(Dive Travel Business News - May 27, 2010) -- The Department of State alerts U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in South Africa to safety and security issues related to the FIFA World Cup taking place in nine cities across the country from June 11 to July 11, 2010. read more »

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