Kakapo
Kakapo travel desk

Live travel news

What's changing for travellers right now — incidents, advisories, route shifts, destination openings. Curated from BBC, Reuters, the Guardian, Al Jazeera, Deutsche Welle, France 24, US State Dept and UK FCDO.

56 articles Updated daily

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Bali — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Bali

Bali court jails Swiss tourist for a year over Nyepi Day of Silence posts

A Denpasar court sentenced a 26 year old Swiss visitor to one year in prison for social media posts mocking Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence. It is the first custodial sentence for a foreign tourist over the observance, and it signals that Bali is now prosecuting religious disrespect rather than handling it informally.

New York City — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
New York City

Flash flooding hits New York City streets and subway stations after overnight storms

Severe thunderstorms dropped up to 2.3 inches of rain on New York City on the night of Thursday 20 August, flooding streets in all five boroughs, sending water into subway stations and briefly closing LaGuardia. The weather threat cleared by Friday, but transit and flight disruption lingered.

Sydney — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Sydney

Sydney air traffic controllers warn regulators of collision risk after July airspace redesign

A whistleblower complaint to Australia's transport safety bureau says Sydney controllers have grave concerns about airspace rules introduced on 9 July, and the federal government was notified on 20 August. Flying remains safe; the practical effect for travellers is delay risk at Australia's busiest airport.

Kinshasa — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Kinshasa

DR Congo Ebola outbreak becomes the deadliest on record: what it means for travel through Kinshasa

The DRC Ebola outbreak has passed 4,600 cases and 2,100 deaths across six eastern provinces, making it the deadliest in the country history. Kinshasa is 1,500 km from the outbreak zone and is not affected, but a US Level 4 advisory, 21 day entry rules in third countries and exit screening at N Djili now shape any trip.

Bali — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Bali

Bali unaffected by magnitude 7.7 Flores earthquake, but Ende flights cancelled and central Flores travel disrupted

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake off Flores on 15 August has killed at least 68 people in East Nusa Tenggara, around 685 km east of Bali. Bali and its airport are operating normally, Labuan Bajo and Komodo are open, but central Flores around Ende should be avoided.

Berlin — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Berlin

Drone threat to German airports: what Berlin travelers should expect after the Leipzig explosive drone

An explosive laden drone was found at Leipzig/Halle airport in early August and Germany's interior minister has warned the country is a daily target of hybrid attacks. Flying through Berlin remains safe, but sudden drone related airport suspensions and diversions are now a realistic disruption to plan around.

New York City — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
New York City

Fatal New York Harbor capsizing near Liberty Island puts unlicensed boat tours under scrutiny

A small powerboat carrying 14 people capsized near Liberty Island on the night of 8 August 2026, killing a 27 year old woman and her five month old daughter. Federal prosecutors have charged the operator, who they say had no captain's licence and was running the trip as an unlicensed charter.

Cali — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Cali

Cali after Colombia's magnitude 7.4 earthquake: damaged hospitals, aftershocks and what travelers should do

The 10 August earthquake in Chocó caused heavy damage in Cali, with about 40 buildings collapsed, 18 hospitals damaged and curfews imposed. Rescue work has wound down but hospital capacity is reduced, aftershocks continue and heavy rain on 16 and 17 August raises landslide risk.

London — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
London

Burst pipe floods Heathrow, cutting road access to Terminals 2 and 3 in London

A leaking water pipe flooded Heathrow airport's Central Terminal Area early on Saturday, blocking road access to Terminals 2 and 3. Flights are operating normally, but passengers are being told to reach those terminals by rail only.

Tokyo — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Tokyo

Record rain floods Chiba next to Tokyo: thousands stranded at Narita airport, rail links cut during Bon week

Record rainfall of more than 360mm in 24 hours flooded Chiba prefecture on 13 and 14 August 2026, killing at least eight people, cutting rail, bus and taxi links to Tokyo's Narita airport and leaving thousands of travellers stranded overnight. Central Tokyo was largely unaffected, trains began resuming on Friday morning, and flights were expected to run close to normal.

Sydney — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Sydney

Sydney Airport near-miss between Jetstar and Qatar Airways aircraft, second incident in a week amid air traffic control staffing shortage

A Qatar Airways 777 and a Jetstar A320 came into close proximity while taxiing at Sydney Airport on August 9, 2026, injuring a ground crew member; it was the second near-miss in a week and follows reported staffing shortages among Sydney's air traffic controllers.

Shanghai — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Shanghai

Typhoon Dolphin hits Shanghai and eastern China: over 1,500 flights cancelled, more than 1 million evacuated

Typhoon Dolphin made landfall near Shanghai and Zhejiang province on August 9, 2026, triggering mass evacuations and widespread flight cancellations at Shanghai's two main airports. Conditions are improving as the storm moves inland, but travelers should expect lingering transit disruption for a few days.

Wenzhou — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Wenzhou

Typhoon Dolphin makes landfall near Wenzhou after battering Okinawa

Typhoon Dolphin, a large and powerful storm that injured at least five people as it passed close to Okinawa, made landfall on China's eastern coast near Wenzhou around August 9-10, 2026, bringing violent winds, storm surge, and heavy rain to the Zhejiang and northern Fujian coastline.

Bangkok — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Bangkok

Bangkok-area school shooting leaves eight dead, Thai PM pledges stricter gun laws

A 14-year-old shot and killed eight people, including five teachers, at a school in Nonthaburi on Bangkok's northern outskirts on August 7, 2026, before taking his own life. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has promised legislation restricting who can carry firearms in public.

London — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
London

Mass arrests at London's Palestine Action court rallies: what visitors should expect around Westminster and Marylebone

Police arrested 77 people outside Westminster Magistrates' Court on 30 July as supporters of the banned group Palestine Action picketed the first of thousands of court hearings. The gatherings are non-violent, but they bring heavy police cordons to central London on hearing days, and expressing support for the proscribed group is a criminal offence that applies to visitors too.

Tokyo — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Tokyo

Tokyo in Japan's record heat spell: heatstroke alerts, 40C days and what visitors should change

Japan has recorded its longest run of 40C days and heatstroke alerts keep covering Tokyo, with three lions dying at a greater Tokyo zoo and record heat compounding earthquake recovery in Kumamoto. Travel is unaffected, but midday outdoor sightseeing carries a real physical risk.

Seoul — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Seoul

Seoul under its first ever severe heat wave warning as South Korea's record heat turns deadly

South Korea's weather agency extended its new top tier heat wave warning to all of Seoul on 4 August, with midday temperatures near 38C and overnight lows around 29C. The city is open and safe, but a normal walking itinerary is not safe to run in the middle of the day.

Berlin — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Berlin

Berlin Pride vehicle attack kills one and injures dozens near Tiergarten; suspect shot dead by police

A man drove a van into crowds at Berlin's Christopher Street Day celebrations near Tiergarten on 25 July 2026, killing one person and injuring 29 before attacking others with a blade. The suspect was killed by police the next day, and authorities are treating it as an Islamist terror attack.

Archive

34 articles
London — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
London

Ebola scare in London: one aid worker monitored as a precaution, and what it means for visitors

A UK aid worker who had been treating patients in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is being monitored in isolation at a specialist London hospital as a highly precautionary measure. They have no symptoms, health authorities say there is no wider risk to the public, and London remains as safe for visitors as before.

Dubai — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Dubai

Dubai stays open and calm as US-Iran tensions unsettle the wider Gulf

A US-Iran confrontation centered on the Strait of Hormuz has brought tanker attacks, scattered flight cancellations and updated Western travel advisories across the Gulf region. Dubai itself remains calm and fully operational, but travelers should keep an eye on official advisories and build some flexibility into flights.

Mumbai — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Mumbai

Mumbai sees 'Cockroach' movement protests spread from Delhi: a traveler's guide

India's youth-led protest movement over exam paper leaks has spread from New Delhi to Mumbai, with demonstrations and sit-ins in the city. The gatherings are peaceful for the most part and localized to protest grounds and civic areas, but they can bring crowds, police presence, and traffic disruption.

Delhi — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Delhi

Delhi protests and metro closures: what the 'Cockroach' demonstrations mean for travelers

Youth-led protests over exam paper leaks have brought large sit-ins to central New Delhi, with police using tear gas and batons and Delhi Metro suspending service at 16 central stations. The disruption is localized around government districts, and most of the city is operating normally.

Kinshasa — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Kinshasa

Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo passes 2,300 cases: what it means for travel through Kinshasa

The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo has reached 2,365 confirmed cases and 932 deaths as of 18 July 2026, all of them in the eastern provinces rather than the capital. Kinshasa has recorded no confirmed cases, but travellers passing through the city now face entry and exit health screening, and several countries have added quarantine rules or advised against non-essential travel to DR Congo.

Paris — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Paris

Weapons cache found near synagogue in Paris suburb Sarcelles triggers anti-terror probe

A stolen car holding an assault rifle and a handgun was found near a synagogue in Sarcelles, north of Paris, prompting the evacuation of about 300 people and a national anti-terror investigation. No attack took place and central Paris was not affected.

Paris — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Paris

Wildfires of 'exceptional scale' burn near Paris, prompting evacuations and firefighting planes

Wildfires described as being of exceptional scale have torn through the historic Fontainebleau forest and other areas near Paris, forcing evacuations and the deployment of water-bombing aircraft during a hot, dry spell.

Bangkok — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Bangkok

Deadly pub fire in Bangkok kills at least 27 as authorities probe possible negligence

A fire tore through a Bangkok pub in the early hours, killing at least 27 people and critically injuring more than 20. Thai authorities are investigating possible safety negligence at the venue.

Toronto — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Toronto

Toronto street festival shooting leaves two dead, several injured at Salsa on St Clair

A shooting at the Salsa on St Clair street festival in Toronto on 12 July killed two people and injured several others. Police responded quickly and the wider city remains one of North America's safer large cities, but crowded public events warrant a little added awareness.

Bangkok — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Bangkok

Deadly Bangkok nightclub fire kills at least 27, prompts venue safety questions for visitors

A fire tore through a popular Bangkok pub late on 12 July, killing at least 27 people and injuring dozens more. Thai police are investigating possible negligence. Bangkok remains broadly safe for travelers, but the tragedy is a reminder to check exits and avoid overcrowded venues.

Berlin — Kakapo travel safety update Resolved
Berlin

Berlin's January blackout was a deliberate attack, city commission concludes

A Berlin commission has ruled that January's five-day power outage in the city's southwest was a deliberate arson attack on the grid. No one was hurt, tourist areas were unaffected, and Berlin remains a safe destination.

Berlin — Kakapo travel safety update Resolved
Berlin

Berlin's January power blackout confirmed as a terror attack, but the city stays broadly safe for visitors

A state-appointed commission has formally concluded that the arson that knocked out power to parts of southwest Berlin over five days in January was an act of terrorism, and has called for stronger protection of the city's critical infrastructure. The attack is an isolated case and does not change the day-to-day picture for travelers, though it is a useful reminder to carry a little backup for power and payments.

Mumbai — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Mumbai

Mumbai monsoon: building collapse kills six as heavy rain floods the city

A building collapse during intense monsoon rain has killed six people in Mumbai, and authorities have issued heavy-rain advisories with school and college closures. Travelers should expect waterlogging, local train and road disruption, and plan around the wettest hours.

Kinshasa — Kakapo travel safety update Advisory
Kinshasa

Ebola outbreak in DR Congo spreads to 4th province, 1,307 cases confirmed

An Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has spread to a fourth province with 1,307 confirmed cases and 377 deaths as of June 30.

Melbourne — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Melbourne

Teens arrested after machete brawl at Melbourne's Flinders Street Station

Multiple teenagers were arrested following an alleged machete brawl at Flinders Street Station on Saturday night, forcing commuters to flee.

Berlin — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Berlin

Ebola patient treated in Berlin's isolation unit amid DRC outbreak

A US doctor infected with Ebola during work in the DRC has been treated successfully in Berlin's Charité hospital, demonstrating the city's world-class containment facilities.

Paris — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Paris

Paris authorities warn of unrest risk as PSG Champions League final draws crowds

Authorities in Paris are concerned that troublemakers may cause unrest as tens of thousands gather for Champions League final screenings on May 30.

Delhi — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Delhi

Delhi Temperatures Hit 45°C as Extreme Heat Poses Health Risks to Workers and Visitors

Delhi faces extreme heat with temperatures reaching 45°C, posing serious health risks to informal workers and travelers during peak summer season.

Madrid — Kakapo travel safety update Trend
Madrid

Madrid protests erupt over housing crisis as rents surge amid tourism pressure

Protesters in Madrid took to the streets May 28 to demand action on soaring rents and housing shortages driven by tourism and immigration growth.

Johannesburg — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Johannesburg

Johannesburg: Nearly 300 Ghanaians repatriated after anti-immigrant protests

Almost 300 Ghanaian nationals were voluntarily repatriated from Johannesburg on May 28, citing safety concerns amid waves of anti-immigrant protests across South Africa.

Brooklyn — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Brooklyn

Flash flooding overwhelms Brooklyn sewer system

Flash flooding struck Brooklyn and Queens on May 24, dumping 2 inches of rain in 20 minutes and overwhelming the city's aging sewer network.

Sydney — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Sydney

Bondi Beach shooting and recent shark attacks raise safety concerns in Sydney area

A shooting incident occurred at Sydney's tourist-heavy Bondi Beach on May 21, and Australia recorded two fatal shark attacks within a week as of May 24.

Chongqing — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Chongqing

Fatal flooding in Chongqing leaves 3 dead, 17 missing

Severe flooding in Chongqing has killed three people and left 17 missing as of May 24; travelers should monitor local conditions and avoid flood-prone areas.

Johannesburg — Kakapo travel safety update Trend
Johannesburg

Johannesburg: Rising anti-migrant attacks reported across South Africa

Anti-migrant violence is increasing in South Africa, posing potential risks to foreign visitors in major cities including Johannesburg.

Kano — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Kano

Kano authorities crack down on thuggery after violent incidents

Kano's Security Council launched a crackdown on thuggery following multiple violent incidents, including the killing of a police officer and an attack on a local official.

Bangkok — Kakapo travel safety update Trend
Bangkok

Bangkok: Thailand tightens visa rules; train crash raises transit safety concerns

Thailand reduced visa-free stays citing foreign crime concerns, while a fatal train crash that killed 8 highlights rail crossing safety issues in Bangkok.

Melbourne — Kakapo travel safety update Trend
Melbourne

Melbourne hospitality venues targeted in firebombing wave

Bars, nightclubs, and restaurants in Melbourne are being targeted in firebombing attacks, with children reportedly being recruited to carry them out.

Lima — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Lima

5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Peru, Injuring 27 and Damaging Buildings in Lima

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit Peru on May 20, injuring 27 people and damaging buildings; travelers should expect disruptions and aftershocks.

New York City — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
New York City

NYC faces LIRR strike disruption and flooding impacts transit and infrastructure

Long Island Rail Road strike and recent flooding have disrupted transit and infrastructure across New York City, affecting commuter rail service and roadways.

London — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
London

London hosts far-right rally and multiple protests in recent week

Thousands attended a far-right "Unite the Kingdom" rally in London on May 17, followed by climate and anti-nuclear protests through May 21; no disruptions reported.

Dhaka — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Dhaka

Measles outbreak in Dhaka kills over 500, mostly children

A severe measles outbreak in Bangladesh has killed more than 500 people, mostly children, with Dhaka hospitals overwhelmed by cases.

Tokyo — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Tokyo

Fatal Bear Attack Suspected in Western Tokyo Mountains

A suspected fatal bear attack occurred in western Tokyo's mountain region on May 19, prompting warnings for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in the area.

Shanghai — Kakapo travel safety update Incident
Shanghai

Knife attack at Shanghai restaurant injures 2 Japanese nationals, 1 Chinese citizen

A knife attack at a Shanghai restaurant on May 19 injured three people, including two Japanese citizens, prompting Japan to request enhanced safety measures for its nationals in China.

Cape Town — Kakapo travel safety update Trend
Cape Town

Cape Town airport route remains hijacking hotspot

The N2 highway to Cape Town International Airport continues to be a high-risk area for vehicle hijackings, travelers should use alternative routes or secure transport.