Travel alert from Ottawa: Burma (Myanmar):

Alerts: Travel updates from Ottawa
Mon 11 June 2012
TRAVEL reports: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada have issued the following updates on the travel.gc.ca website to the following countries:

Burma (Myanmar): Exercise high degree of caution

The political situation in Burma is volatile and there is always a possibility of civil unrest. Canadians may find their security unexpectedly at risk and should therefore exercise caution, avoid concentrations of police and security forces, avoid gatherings and remain informed of current issues.

Protests, demonstrations and unauthorized assemblies are illegal in Burma. Freedom of speech and political activities are highly circumscribed and the Burmese government is very sensitive to any expression of opposition to its rule. Foreigners criticising the regime in public may be arrested or detained.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against all travel to areas along the border with Thailand, China, and Laos due to clashes between the military and armed groups, ethnic conflict, banditry, and unmarked landmines in these areas which pose risks to the security of travellers. Sporadic fighting between military forces and non-state armed groups is occurring in Kachin, Shan and Karen states bordering China and Thailand. Tens of thousands of civilians have been displaced internally and to neighbouring countries.

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the entire state of Rakhine, due to serious civil unrest. A state of emergency has been declared, and a curfew may be imposed at any time. Canadians in the area should follow the advice of local authorities.

Go to www.voyage.gc.ca for more information on these advisories, or call 1-800-267-6788 FREE 1-800-267-6788 in Canada and United States.