US Issues Hong Kong Travel Warning Over Protests
Hong Kong is a very popular travel destination is Asia. But recent events have forced the United States to issue a travel warning. It is urging increased caution by visitors to the Chinese territory in the face of what it described as civil unrest after months of sometimes violent street protests. Australia also warned its travelers in an updated advisory.
More protests are planned in several districts across the city this weekend, starting on Friday, with demonstrators also planning a three-day rally at the city’s international airport.
Hong Kong Travel Advisory
The Hong Kong travel advisory is now at Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution). Here’s what the US Department of State website says:
Since June 2019, several large scale and smaller political demonstrations have taken place in various areas of Hong Kong. Most have been peaceful, but some have turned confrontational or resulted in violent clashes. The protests and confrontations have spilled over into neighborhoods other than those where the police have permitted marches or rallies. These demonstrations, which can take place with little or no notice, are likely to continue.
And here’s some tips for those that decide to travel to Hong Kong:
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Avoid the areas of the demonstrations.
- Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep a low profile.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for Hong Kong.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
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[…] While it was just recently we wrote about how other countries are warning people about visiting the U.S., this week DDG on Miles to Memories tells about how the United States has issued a warning about traveling to Hong Kong due to the current protests agai…. […]
Be award of your surroundings, avoid demonstrations, keep a low profile, exercise caution, etc. These sound like things that you should do at all times abroad or in your own country.
Question for other travelers who have been in this situation; how do cruise companies react to these warnings; e.g., monitor only, alter itineraries? We have an Ocean cruise coming up in less than 90 days that ends in Hong Kong. I realize it’s a major undertaking to change the last port of call since it would also require massive flight changes for outgoing and incoming passengers (not to mention those who made their own arrangements). So, comments please.