January 2026 Travel News Highlights

Several countries have recently issued strong travel advisories urging citizens to avoid travel to Venezuela amid ongoing political instability, security concerns, and limited access to essential services. Governments including the United States, India, Canada, and Australia are warning that the situation on the ground presents serious risks for travelers, and in many cases are advising citizens currently in the country to leave if it is safe to do so.

The United States has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory — its highest warning level — citing life-threatening risks such as wrongful detention, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest, and inadequate health infrastructure. U.S. citizens and residents in Venezuela are being urged to depart immediately. Canada has echoed similar concerns, pointing to high crime rates, political and economic instability, and severe shortages of necessities like medication, fuel, and water. With the Canadian Embassy closed since 2019, citizens must rely on remote assistance if they require help leaving the country.

India and Australia have also released advisories cautioning against all non-essential travel to Venezuela. Indian authorities are encouraging nationals currently in the country to exercise extreme caution, limit outdoor movement, and remain in close contact with the Indian Embassy in Caracas. Australia has cited a state of emergency in Caracas and surrounding regions, advising citizens to shelter in place, maintain adequate supplies, and consider leaving when conditions allow. Australian travelers are also reminded that consular assistance is provided remotely, as the country does not maintain an embassy or consulate in Venezuela.

For a closer look at how these developments may impact travelers and what steps to take if plans are affected, we encourage you to read our full statement.

A powerful winter weather system swept across large parts of Europe this week, bringing heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that caused widespread travel disruptions. Airports, rail networks, and roads across multiple countries were impacted, with hundreds of flights grounded and ground transportation significantly slowed. Authorities in several regions urged residents and travelers to limit non-essential travel as conditions continued to deteriorate.

France was among the hardest hit, with heavy snowfall creating hazardous driving conditions and forcing temporary airport closures in northern and western parts of the country. In Paris, snow-covered landmarks prompted early-morning closures, while reports confirmed multiple weather-related fatalities. The United Kingdom also faced severe conditions, as temperatures in northern regions plunged well below freezing, disrupting both air and rail services. In northern Scotland, heavy snowfall left some communities temporarily cut off, while Liverpool John Lennon Airport suspended operations due to icy conditions.

The effects of the storm extended into southern and eastern Europe. In Italy, persistent rainfall caused rivers to swell, leading local authorities in Rome to ban public recreational and sporting events. Further east, countries in the Balkans experienced snow, heavy rain, and power disruptions, prompting emergency measures in parts of Serbia. Along the Adriatic coast, strong winds and rough seas battered coastal areas in Croatia and Montenegro, further complicating travel plans.

In the Netherlands, winter weather severely impacted air and rail travel, with hundreds of flights cancelled at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport as crews worked to de-ice aircraft and clear runways. Rail services were also disrupted due to frozen infrastructure and technical issues, prompting officials to advise travelers to postpone trips unless absolutely necessary. As extreme weather continues to affect travel across Europe, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and protect their trips. Consider securing comprehensive travel insurance from Trawick International to help safeguard your plans against unexpected delays, cancellations, and weather-related disruptions.

Greece has introduced a new legislative framework aimed at regulating the fast-growing glamping industry, reinforcing its commitment to high-quality, sustainable tourism. As demand for nature-based luxury experiences continues to rise, the Greek Ministry of Tourism is setting clear standards to ensure glamping sites deliver consistent quality while respecting the environment.

Glamping has gained popularity in Greece since 2012, attracting travelers seeking outdoor experiences paired with modern comforts. Under the new regulations, glamping sites will be classified similarly to luxury hotels, with most expected to meet 4-star or 5-star standards. Operators must comply with strict criteria related to comfort, service quality, environmental impact, and sustainability.

The framework also prioritizes environmental integration and guest privacy by limiting capacity, spacing accommodations appropriately, and requiring that at least 50% of each site remain covered by natural vegetation. Accessibility is another key focus, with all glamping sites required to meet national guidelines to accommodate travelers with disabilities or reduced mobility.

As Greece continues to position itself as a leading eco-tourism destination, these changes aim to enhance traveler confidence and elevate the overall experience. When planning your next trip, consider protecting your travel plans with travel insurance from Trawick International for added peace of mind.

Indonesia’s popular island destination of Bali is considering new entry requirements for foreign visitors as part of broader efforts to promote what officials describe as “quality tourism.” Proposed measures, expected to take shape in 2026, include financial verification for travelers, closer monitoring of visitor activities and length of stay, as well as potential minimum spending requirements and visitor quotas.

According to local reports, Bali Governor Wayan Koster announced that authorities are exploring a policy that would require foreign tourists to demonstrate financial stability prior to arrival. The proposal would involve verifying visitors’ bank records from the previous three months, though officials have not yet specified the minimum amount travelers would need to show. Additional requirements under consideration include proof of a confirmed return ticket and strict compliance with Indonesian laws, Balinese cultural norms, and local customs.

The governor emphasized that these measures aim to shift Bali’s tourism model away from high visitor volumes and toward attracting travelers with greater economic means and a deeper respect for the destination. The policy has not yet been formalized, as the Bali Provincial Government is currently drafting legislation that would outline financial thresholds and enforcement mechanisms. Once finalized, the proposal will be submitted to the Bali Regional House of Representatives for approval, with implementation potentially beginning in 2026.

It is important to note that some financial checks are already in place, as travelers applying for a Visa on Arrival or eVisa on Arrival may be asked to demonstrate sufficient funds at immigration. As entry requirements continue to evolve, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and plan ahead. To travel with added confidence, consider protecting your trip with travel insurance from Trawick International, which can help protect your plans as regulations and requirements change.

Travel in 2026 continues to evolve, with shifting airline policies, ongoing operational challenges, and rising costs reshaping how travelers plan their trips. While demand remains strong, navigating today’s travel landscape requires more preparation than simply finding the lowest fare. Understanding these changes ahead of time can help travelers avoid surprises and make more informed decisions.

Airline policies have become noticeably stricter, particularly around changes and cancellations. Basic economy fares now come with more limitations, including restricted seat selection and fewer flexible options if plans change. What may appear to be a savings upfront can quickly become costly without carefully reviewing fare rules before booking.

Delays and disruptions also remain common, driven by weather events, staffing shortages, and congestion at major travel hubs. Even minor delays can impact tight connections or multi-stop itineraries, making added buffer time and contingency planning increasingly important.

Rising medical costs abroad add another layer of complexity, especially for international travelers whose domestic health insurance may offer limited coverage outside their home country. To learn more about what’s changing in travel and how to plan ahead, read our full blog post on our website.