Data updates: October 2026
32,750 changes logged in October 2026. page 286 of 328.
- Oct 4, 2026Paraguay— bestTimeToVisit changed: from
…December to February is fiercely hot and humid, often above 38°C.to The Government of Canada says Paraguay has extreme dry periods between April and September and a rainy season from December to March, when the east is most exposed to flooding and roads, especially in the Chaco, can become impassable. Bush and forest fires are common from mid-July to December in the north-east (Concepción, Amambay, San Pedro, Canindeyú). (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Paraguay— customs.notes changed: from
["Ciudad del Este is a duty-free shopping hub, but Brazil and Argentina enforce strict personal allowances on the way back. Keep receipts and stay under their limits.", "Fresh meat, dairy and plant material may not be brought in; agricultural controls at the land borders are active.", "Land-border crossings to Argentina and Brazil are not always staffed by both countries' immigration on the same side — get your Paraguayan exit and neighbor's entry stamps, or you will have problems later."]to [] (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Paraguay— tips changed: from
terere (national ritual and etiquette); summer-heat (38°C, storm power cuts); spanish-guarani ("outside Asunción Guaraní is what people speak", "English rarely useful"); border-stamps (Clorinda bridge, refused entry)to (deleted / trimmed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Paraguay— faq changed: from
Many visitors instead do a border run… repeated same-day runs attract attention… comparatively accessible temporary-residence route.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Emergency numbers changed: from
general 105 · ambulance 106 · fire 116to police 105 · medical 116 · fire 116 (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Payments changed: from
Cards are widely accepted in Lima, Cusco and Arequipa hotels, restaurants and shops, but cash rules in markets, small towns, taxis and the countryside. Carry soles in small notes — change for 100-sol bills is scarce — and use ATMs inside banks or malls.to Canada's travel advice says the US dollar is widely accepted, credit cards are not commonly accepted outside major cities, many establishments ask to see a passport when you pay by card, and ATMs are not easily found in small towns and often limit withdrawals. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Best time to visit changed: from
May to September is the dry season in the Andes — the best window for Cusco, Machu Picchu and trekking (book the Inca Trail months ahead); Lima's coast is gray then but pleasant December–March.to Canada's travel advice says the rainy season in the Peruvian Andes runs from November to May, when flooding and landslides can close tourist areas, and that forest fires are common in the dry season from June to October. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Customs notes changed: from
There is no paper entry form. The old Andean Migration Card (TAM) is digital and generated automatically at passport control; note the number of days written or stamped, as that is your permitted stay. | Personal electronics such as a laptop and phone enter duty-free; strict rules protect archaeological artefacts — exporting antiques or pre-Columbian items is a crime. | Coca leaves and coca tea are legal in Peru but illegal to take into most other countries, including the US and the EU.to There is no paper entry form. The old Andean Migration Card (TAM) is digital and generated automatically at passport control; note the number of days written or stamped, as that is your permitted stay. | The UK government says it is illegal to remove any archaeological artefacts from Peru without authorisation. | The UK government advises against taking coca leaves or coca tea out of Peru, as importing them into the UK is illegal; check the rules of your next destination. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Tip changed: from
Cusco sits at 3,400 m. Plan a light first day, hydrate, and consider acclimatising in the lower Sacred Valley (2,800 m) before the city or any trek. Altitude sickness can hit anyone regardless of fitness.to The UK government says altitude sickness is a serious risk in parts of Peru, including Cusco, Puno, the Colca Canyon and Kuelap. Plan a light first day, stay hydrated and learn the symptoms. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Tip changed: from
Machu Picchu entry tickets are limited, timed and sold out weeks ahead in high season (June–August). Buy them and Inca Trail permits well in advance through official channels only.to Buy Machu Picchu entry tickets and Inca Trail permits well in advance, through official channels only. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Tip changed: from
Never hail unmarked street taxis in Lima. Use ride-hailing apps or hotel-arranged, registered taxis. Express kidnappings and robberies via informal taxis are the most common serious crime against visitors.to Do not hail taxis on the street. The UK government warns of robberies by criminals posing as taxi drivers, especially at Lima's Jorge Chávez airport and bus terminals, and advises licensed telephone or app-based taxis, hotel-booked taxis, or the official taxi desks outside the airport baggage hall. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Peru— Tip changed: from
Tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Peru. Stick to bottled, boiled or filtered water, including for brushing teeth in jungle areas.to Australia's Smartraveller advises drinking boiled or bottled water in Peru. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Payments changed: from
Cards work in city hotels, malls and chain restaurants, but jeepneys, tricycles, markets, small eateries and most of the islands run on cash. GCash QR payments are everywhere locally but need a Philippine SIM and account.to No official source we checked describes card acceptance in the Philippines. Canada's travel advice says ATMs are available in larger cities but may be scarce in rural areas, so have cash in pesos when you travel outside larger urban areas. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Best time to visit (months) changed: from
12, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5to 12, 1, 2, 3, 4 (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Best time to visit changed: from
December to May is the dry season across most of the archipelago — December to February is coolest, March to May hottest. June to November brings rain and typhoons.to Canada's travel advice says the rainy season runs from May to November, though storms can occur all year, and the UK government says around 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year, mostly between June and November. No official source names a best season; the months shown fall outside the rainy season. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Customs notes changed: from
Duty-free allowance: 2 cartons of cigarettes and 2 bottles of alcohol (up to 1 liter each) per adult. | The customs declaration is completed electronically as part of eTravel registration.to The UK government says there are strict rules on goods taken into or out of the Philippines, and you must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Tip changed: from
Book an onward or return ticket before you fly — Philippine carriers and foreign airlines alike will refuse boarding without one for visa-free travelers.to Book an onward or return ticket before you fly: the UK government says most visitors are expected to have proof of return or onward travel and that immigration officials and airlines may ask for it. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Tip changed: from
eTravel registration is free. Third-party sites charging a fee for the QR code are scams. Use only etravel.gov.ph.to Register only on the official eTravel portal, etravel.gov.ph. (etravel.gov.ph )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— Tip changed: from
Typhoon season runs roughly June to November — ferries and domestic flights get canceled at short notice, so build slack into island-hopping plans.to The UK government says around 20 typhoons hit the Philippines each year, mostly between June and November, and Canada says authorities may suspend ferry services at short notice when a storm signal is raised, which can strand you at a port for days. Build slack into island-hopping plans. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Philippines— FAQ changed: from
Yes. Proof of onward or return travel is a legal condition of visa-free entry, and airlines check it rigorously at check-in — passengers without it are routinely denied boarding. A cheap real ticket to any other country satisfies the rule.to Plan on it. The UK government says most visitors are expected to have proof of return or onward travel and that immigration officials and airlines may ask for it, and Canada says customs officials may ask to see a return or onward ticket. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— emergency changed: from
{"general": "112"}to {"general": "112", "police": "997", "fire": "998", "ambulance": "999"} (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— payments changed: from
Cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere, and the local BLIK mobile payment system is ubiquitous. Cash is rarely needed outside small markets.to No official source we could read describes card acceptance in Poland. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— bestTimeToVisit changed: from
May–September brings warm weather for cities, the Baltic coast and the Tatra mountains; December adds atmospheric Christmas markets in Kraków and Wrocław.to No official source we could read gives a best time to visit Poland. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— customs.notes changed: from
["Duty-free from outside the EU: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, goods up to €300 (€430 arriving by air/sea).", "No limits on goods for personal use when arriving from another EU country.", "Extra checks apply on the external borders with Belarus, Russia and Ukraine. Some crossings are closed or restricted."]to ["Duty-free from outside the EU: 1 litre of spirits (or 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine), 4 litres of still wine, 16 litres of beer and other goods up to €300 (€430 arriving by air or sea). The EU's Your Europe guidance lists Poland among the countries applying the lower tobacco limit — 40 cigarettes instead of 200 — to travellers arriving by land or sea.", "Between EU countries, alcohol and tobacco bought for your own use are not taxed again; customs may use guide levels such as 800 cigarettes or 10 litres of spirits to judge whether goods are for personal use.", "The UK and Canadian governments' travel advice says access to parts of Poland's borders with Ukraine and Belarus is restricted, and that some crossings with Belarus and Russia (Kaliningrad) are closed."] (europa.eu )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— tips changed: from
Use ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt, FreeNow) or clearly marked licensed taxis…to Attributed UK/Canada advice on official taxis; removed app recommendation. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— tips changed: from
Always choose to pay in złoty … dynamic currency conversion adds a poor exchange rate.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Poland— faq changed: from
…Cards and contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere… choose to be charged in PLN.to Poland uses the zloty (Canada). (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Portugal— Tap water safe to drink changed: from
Trueto False (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Portugal— Card acceptance / cash importance changed: from
widely/lowto widely-in-cities/medium (smartraveller.gov.au )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Portugal— Best time to visit changed: from
[4, 5, 6, 9, 10]to [4, 5, 6, 9, 10] (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Portugal— Customs note changed: from
Duty-free from outside the EU: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, goods up to €300 (€430 arriving by air/sea).to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Portugal— Customs note changed: from
No limits on goods for personal use when arriving from another EU country.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Tap water safe to drink changed: from
trueto false (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Customs note changed: from
Alcohol may not be brought into Qatar, including duty-free purchases made en route. It is confiscated at the border.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Customs note changed: from
Narcotics, pork products and pornographic material are prohibited; many medications require a prescription. Check before traveling.to The UK FCDO says Qatar has zero tolerance for drug offences, even residual amounts, and that some medicines legal elsewhere are controlled or illegal in Qatar. To bring controlled or prescription medication, follow the Ministry of Public Health's steps, including a prescription and a medical report in English; the Ministry runs an online permit service. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Customs note changed: from
E-cigarettes and vaping products are restricted — bringing them in can lead to confiscation and fines.to The UK FCDO says it is illegal to import, sell or buy vapes and e-cigarette products, including liquids and electronic shisha pipes, whatever the quantity; customs may confiscate them, and using them can lead to arrest, a fine, prison or deportation. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Tip changed: from
From June to September temperatures routinely exceed 45°C with high humidity. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or after dark, and stay hydrated.to Canada's travel advice says high humidity and severe heat occur from June to September, and that dehydration and heatstroke can be fatal: carry enough water and plan outdoor activity for the cooler hours. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Tip changed: from
Alcohol is legal only in licensed hotel bars and restaurants — never drink in public or drive after drinking (zero tolerance), and do not bring alcohol into the country, even duty-free.to The UK FCDO says only licensed hotels, restaurants and bars can sell alcohol, the legal drinking age is 21, and drinking or being drunk in public is illegal. There is zero tolerance for drink-driving: any amount of alcohol can mean one month to 3 years in prison or a fine of QAR 10,000–50,000, and deportation. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— Tip changed: from
Dress modestly in public places — shoulders and knees covered is the safe rule at malls, souqs and government buildings; swimwear is fine at hotel pools and beaches.to The UK FCDO says to dress modestly in public, including while driving — men and women should cover their shoulders and knees — and that the dress code is strictly enforced in government buildings, healthcare facilities and banks, where you may be refused entry. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Qatar— FAQ answer changed: from
Yes, but only in licensed venues — mainly hotel bars and restaurants. Drinking in public is illegal, there is zero tolerance for drink-driving, and you cannot bring alcohol into the country even from duty-free.to Yes, but only in licensed venues: the UK FCDO says only licensed hotels, restaurants and bars can sell alcohol and the legal drinking age is 21. Drinking or being drunk in public is illegal and can bring up to 6 months in prison or a fine of up to QAR 3,000, and there is zero tolerance for drink-driving. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Republic of the Congo— Card acceptance changed: from
Rareto Limited (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Republic of the Congo— Customs notes changed: from
Exporting ivory, wildlife products and some hardwoods is prohibited without permits. | Large amounts of CFA franc cash fall under BEAC currency-control rules. Declare significant sums on arrival and departure.to (none) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Romania— Tap water changed: from
safe to drinkto no official source says it is safe (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Romania— Customs notes changed: from
No limits on goods for personal use when arriving from another EU country.to Between EU countries, alcohol and tobacco bought with tax paid, for your own use and not for resale, owe no further tax, according to the EU's Your Europe portal. (europa.eu )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Romania— Customs notes changed: from
Duty-free from outside the EU: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, goods up to €300 (€430 arriving by air/sea).to Arriving from outside the EU, the EU's Your Europe portal gives a duty-free allowance of 4 litres of still wine and 16 litres of beer, plus 1 litre of spirits (or 2 litres of fortified or sparkling wine), and other goods worth up to €300 (€430 by air or sea). Tobacco limits depend on the country, and travellers under 17 get no alcohol or tobacco allowance. (europa.eu )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Romania— Tip changed: from
In Bucharest use ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber) or order taxis through an app — overcharging of tourists at the airport and Gara de Nord is a long-running problem.to (removed) (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— emergency changed: from
{"general": "112"}to {"general": "112", "police": "102", "ambulance": "103", "fire": "101"} (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— tapWaterSafe changed: from
not safeto not stated (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— payments changed: from
Visa and Mastercard issued outside Russia do not work anywhere in the country. Bring US dollars or euros in cash to exchange, and budget for the whole trip. Russian-issued Mir cards are accepted almost everywhere domestically.to The UK Foreign Office says Mastercard and Visa are not operating in Russia: cards issued outside Russia will not work in shops or ATMs, while cards issued inside Russia work only there. Paying in foreign currency is illegal; to buy roubles, take US dollars or euros and change them only at banks, hotels and exchange bureaus. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— bestTimeToVisit changed: from
May to September brings warm weather and long daylight for Moscow, St Petersburg's White Nights and the Golden Ring towns; winter is atmospheric but very cold.to No official source we could read gives a best time to visit Russia. The CIA World Factbook describes a climate ranging from steppe in the south through humid continental in much of European Russia to subarctic in Siberia and tundra in the polar north. (cia.gov )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— customs.notes changed: from
["Drones and satellite communication equipment are heavily restricted — bringing them in can lead to confiscation or prosecution.", "Medicines containing controlled substances need a prescription and may require a customs declaration on arrival."]to ["The UK Foreign Office says you must complete a customs declaration for goods worth more than 10,000 US dollars, and for items of cultural or historical significance, rare plants or animals, vehicles, weapons, and medicines containing potent, toxic or psychoactive substances, whatever their value.", "The UK Foreign Office says you need a licence before travelling with certain electronic equipment, including GPS devices, and that the number of electronic items for personal use is limited. Using a drone requires permission from the Russian aviation authority.", "The UK Foreign Office says cannabidiol (CBD) is illegal in Russia, even in products bought legally elsewhere, and that exporting antiques or artwork without a Ministry of Culture permit is illegal."] (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— tips changed: from
The US, UK, EU and most Western governments advise against all travel … exit bans …to FCDO / Canada advisories (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— tips changed: from
Foreign Visa and Mastercard cards do not work in Russia … keep exchange receipts.to FCDO money advice (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— tips changed: from
Stay well away from regions bordering Ukraine and from the North Caucasus republics …to FCDO security statements (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— faq changed: from
Most Western governments advise against all travel … Everyday crime affecting tourists is low in the big cities …to FCDO / Canada advisories (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Russia— faq changed: from
… stopped working there in 2022 … or arrange a domestic Mir card for a longer stay.to FCDO money advice (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Emergency numbers changed: from
general: 112to police: 112 · ambulance: 912 (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Payments changed: from
Cards and mobile money are widely used in Kigali's hotels, restaurants and supermarkets; carry francs for markets, moto-taxis and rural areas.to Canada's travel advice describes Rwanda as a cash-based economy in which electronic payments are becoming more available: credit cards are usually accepted at most hotels and lodges and at most businesses, restaurants and shops in Kigali, but expect to pay other expenses in cash. Some ATMs may not accept foreign cards, and most shops will not accept or exchange US dollar notes printed before 2006. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Best time to visit changed: from
6,7,8,9,12,1,2to 6,7,8,1 (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Best time to visit changed: from
The long dry season from June to September is ideal for gorilla trekking and hiking; December to February offers a shorter dry window. The heaviest rains fall March to May.to Canada's travel advice says the rainy seasons run from February to May and from September to December, when seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Customs note changed: from
Non-biodegradable plastic bags are banned in Rwanda and are confiscated at the airport — pack with paper or cloth bags instead.to (removed or rewritten) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Tip changed: from
Gorilla-trekking permits for Volcanoes National Park cost USD 1,500 and sell out well ahead. Book months in advance through the Rwanda Development Board or a licensed operator.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Tip changed: from
Rwanda bans non-biodegradable plastic bags. They are searched for and confiscated on arrival. Repack duty-free and laundry into paper or cloth bags before you land.to The UK Foreign Office says plastic bags are banned in Rwanda and will be confiscated if you have them on arrival. Repack duty-free and laundry into paper or cloth bags before you land. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Tip changed: from
On the last Saturday morning of each month (Umuganda), the country pauses for community work — shops stay shut and transport is limited until around midday.to Canada's travel advice says the last Saturday of each month is Umuganda, a national day of community service, when most normal services close from 7 am to 11 am. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— Tip changed: from
Check current advice before traveling near the DRC border around Rubavu/Goma — cross-border tensions flare periodically even while the rest of Rwanda stays calm.to Canada advises a high degree of caution in parts of Rubavu and Rusizi districts near the DRC border because of rebel groups on the Congolese side, and says crossing at the Gisenyi–Goma and Cyangugu–Bukavu border posts is prohibited for most travellers. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Rwanda— FAQ changed: from
Only if you arrive from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission — then the certificate is checked. It is still a sensible vaccination to have for a wider East African itinerary.to Only if you arrive from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission — then the certificate is checked. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Kitts and Nevis— emergency changed: from
{"general": "911", "police": "911"}to {"police": "911", "ambulance": "911", "fire": "333"} (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Kitts and Nevis— tapWaterSafe changed: from
trueto false (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Kitts and Nevis— bestTimeToVisit changed: from
December to April is the dry season with the most settled weather. Carnival peaks around Christmas and New Year on St Kitts, while Culturama on Nevis falls at the start of August, in the middle of the wetter, stormier months.to No official seasonal guidance. The UK Foreign Office and the Government of Canada say the hurricane season runs from June to November, when even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Kitts and Nevis— customs.notes changed: from
["Firearms and ammunition require a permit arranged in advance; stray rounds found in luggage are treated as a criminal matter.", "Camouflage-patterned clothing is restricted across much of the eastern Caribbean and can be confiscated on arrival.", "Fresh produce, plants and meat products are controlled. Declare anything agricultural.", "Drug offenses carry heavy penalties and apply to visitors in the same way as residents."]to ["The UK Foreign Office says it is illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing, with a fine of EC$250 and 3 months in prison; the Government of Canada adds that carrying items made of camouflage material is also illegal.", "You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty, according to the UK Foreign Office.", "The UK Foreign Office says drug offences carry severe penalties: on conviction at a Magistrates Court, a fine of up to EC$400,000 or 3 times the street value, whichever is higher, and up to 10 years in prison; High Court sentences start at 15 years. Personal-use cannabis is decriminalised but needs a licence."] (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Kitts and Nevis— tips changed: from
ec-dollar-peg (EC$2.70 peg; change given in EC dollars); cbi-passport-scrutiny (oldest CBI programme, closer visa scrutiny, EU review); hurricane peak Aug–Sep; driving without permit voids rental insurance; named ferry routesto (deleted / trimmed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Emergency numbers changed: from
general 911 · police 999 · ambulance 911to police 999 · ambulance 911 · fire 911 (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Tap water changed: from
safe to drinkto not for drinking (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Payments changed: from
Resorts, restaurants and supermarkets in Rodney Bay, Castries and Soufrière take cards. Minibuses, market vendors, roadside stalls and small guesthouses are cash-only. US dollars are accepted in tourist areas but change comes back in EC dollars.to No official source we could read describes how widely cards are accepted in Saint Lucia. Canada's travel advice says the currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD) and that US dollars are widely accepted. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Best time to visit changed: from
December to April is the dry season with the calmest seas and the biggest events, including the Saint Lucia Jazz festival in spring. Hurricane season runs June to November, with the wettest months in late summer.to Canada's travel advice says the hurricane season runs from early June to the end of November. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Customs notes changed: from
Camouflage-patterned clothing is prohibited for civilians and is confiscated at the airport — this catches out visitors every season. | Firearms and ammunition require a permit arranged in advance; yachts arriving with weapons on board must declare them and surrender them for the duration of the stay. | Fresh produce, plants and meat products are controlled. Declare anything agricultural. | Drug offenses carry heavy penalties and apply to visitors in the same way as residents.to The UK government says it is illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing. | The UK government says there are severe penalties for all drug offences. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Tip changed: from
Camouflage clothing is illegal for civilians in Saint Lucia and is routinely confiscated at the airport — this includes children's clothes and printed bags. Pack something else.to The UK government says it is illegal for anyone in Saint Lucia, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing. Pack something else. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Tip changed: from
Driving is on the left and visitors need a Saint Lucian temporary driving permit, issued by the rental company or the police against a valid home license. The road over the mountains between Castries and Soufrière is steep and slow. Allow far longer than the distance suggests.to Traffic drives on the left, according to Canada's travel advice, and the UK government says visitors without a Saint Lucian driving licence must get a temporary driving permit. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Tip changed: from
Hewanorra (UVF) in the south handles long-haul flights and is around 90 minutes from the northern resorts; George F. L. Charles (SLU) in Castries takes regional traffic. Check which airport your ticket uses before booking transfers.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— Tip changed: from
Saint Lucia operates a citizenship-by-investment program. Holders of Saint Lucian passports obtained that way should expect closer scrutiny when applying for visas elsewhere, as the EU has been reviewing visa-free access for Caribbean CBI passports.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Lucia— FAQ changed: from
Yes. Camouflage-patterned clothing is reserved for the security forces and is confiscated from civilians, including tourists and children, at the airport. The same rule applies in several neighboring islands, so it is worth checking your luggage before any eastern Caribbean trip.to Yes. The UK government says it is illegal for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing in Saint Lucia, so leave camouflage-pattern clothes and bags at home. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Emergency numbers changed: from
{"general": "911", "police": "911", "fire": "999", "ambulance": "999"}to {"general": "911 or 999", "police": "999", "ambulance": "911"} (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Tap water safe to drink changed: from
Yesto No (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Payments changed: from
Hotels, resorts and larger restaurants in Kingstown, Bequia and Canouan take cards, and ATMs dispense East Caribbean dollars. Carry cash for minibuses, ferries, market stalls and the smaller Grenadine islands, where card terminals are scarce and network outages are common. US dollars are widely accepted at a rate close to the fixed EC$2.70.to No official source we checked describes card acceptance. Canada's travel advice says US dollars are widely accepted alongside the East Caribbean dollar, and the UK government says taxi fares can often be paid in US dollars — agree the fare with the driver before you set off. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Best time to visit changed: from
January to May is the dry season — steady trade winds, calm anchorages in the Grenadines and the lowest rainfall. Hurricane season runs June to November, with the highest risk from August to October.to Canada's travel advice says the hurricane season runs from early June to the end of November. No official source names a best season; the months shown fall outside it. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Customs notes changed: from
Firearms, spearguns and ammunition may not be brought in without a permit issued in advance — this catches out yacht crews sailing down the Grenadines. | Fresh fruit, vegetables, plants, seeds and meat are controlled to protect local agriculture; declare anything of that kind rather than risk a fine. | Camouflage-pattern clothing is discouraged across the Eastern Caribbean and may be confiscated.to It is illegal for anyone, including children, to wear camouflage clothing (UK government), and Canada says it is illegal for civilians to import camouflage material. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Tip changed: from
The official Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30, peaking August to October. Ferries between the islands are canceled in heavy swell — build slack into island-hopping plans and check that your insurance covers weather disruption.to Canada's travel advice says the hurricane season runs from early June to the end of November, and that even small tropical storms can quickly become major hurricanes. Monitor forecasts, follow local authorities, and check that your insurance covers weather disruption. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Tip changed: from
La Soufrière is an active volcano and erupted as recently as 2021. Hiking the crater is popular but follow the alert level published by the UWI Seismic Research Centre and the national emergency management organization (NEMO) before setting out.to Canada's travel advice says La Soufrière is an active volcano whose last significant eruption was in April 2021, and that it has limited police presence around La Soufrière and the north of the island. Monitor local media for volcanic activity and take care if trekking there. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Tip changed: from
Arriving by yacht you must clear immigration and customs at an official port of entry — Kingstown, Bequia (Port Elizabeth), Canouan, Union Island or Chatham Bay — before moving between the Grenadines.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— Tip changed: from
The EC dollar is pegged at EC$2.70 to US$1. Paying in US dollars is accepted almost everywhere, but you will usually get change in EC dollars and a slightly worse rate than the ATM.to Canada's travel advice says US dollars are widely accepted, and the UK government says taxi fares can often be paid in US dollars. Agree taxi fares in advance — taxis are not metered. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— FAQ changed: from
Argyle International Airport (SVD) on Saint Vincent takes direct flights from Miami, New York, Toronto and regional Caribbean hubs, with connections through Barbados and Saint Lucia. The Grenadines are reached by inter-island ferry from Kingstown or by short flights to Bequia, Canouan, Mustique and Union Island.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Saint Vincent and the Grenadines— FAQ changed: from
The visa rules are the same by sea as by air — what changes is the procedure. The captain must clear the whole crew in at an official port of entry, present passports and the ship's papers, and pay cruising and port fees; each crew member gets the same entry stamp they would receive at the airport.to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— emergency changed: from
{"police": "995", "fire": "994", "ambulance": "996"}to {"general": "911"} (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— languages changed: from
["Samoan", "English"]to ["Samoan"] (mesc.gov.ws )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— payments changed: from
Hotels, resorts and larger shops in Apia take cards, but markets, buses, beach fales and village stalls are cash only. ATMs are plentiful in Apia and scarce elsewhere — draw tālā before heading to Savai'i or the south coast.to Canada's travel advice says major credit cards are accepted at most large hotels and some restaurants and stores, and that ATMs are mostly in and around Apia, with one on Savai'i and none elsewhere on the islands. (travel.gc.ca )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— bestTimeToVisit changed: from
May to October is the dry season — cooler, less humid and outside the November-to-April cyclone and rain period.to The UK government's travel advice says the tropical cyclone season normally runs from November to the end of April, with most rain falling from December to March. (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— customs.notes changed: from
["Biosecurity is strict — fresh fruit, vegetables, seeds, plants, meat and dairy are restricted, and used hiking or camping gear may be inspected and cleaned.", "Duty-free allowances for alcohol and tobacco are modest and enforced at Faleolo.", "Firearms, ammunition and offensive weapons are prohibited without prior permission from the police."]to ["The UK government's travel advice says there are strict regulations on importing firearms, plant and animal products, pets and recreational drugs, and that you must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty."] (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— tips changed: from
Sunday rest and evening sa curfewto Sunday alcohol-sale ban and public drinking law (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— tips changed: from
Samoa switched to driving on the left in 2009 ...to Left-hand traffic, temporary permit, speed limits (UK and Canadian advice) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab) - Oct 4, 2026Samoa— faq changed: from
Can I visit American Samoa on the same trip? ...to (removed) (gov.uk )(opens in a new tab)