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THE AMERICAS

Chile

Travelers should avoid all demonstrations related to a port workers’ strike due to the risk of unrest. Protests have largely been centered on the port city of Valparaiso, where security forces used tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators blocking roads yesterday; however, the strike has spread to other cities, such as Antofagasta, San Antonio, and Puerto Montt. Protests, roadblocks, and associated clashes between protesters and security forces will cause disruption and pose incidental risks to bystanders.

Peru

Today, travelers in Cusco and Puno should anticipate disruption related to an ongoing 72-hour strike by environmental activists. Protests are likely to include roadblocks. On Monday, December 17, protesters in Ayaviri blocked the 3S Highway between Puno and Cusco….

THE AMERICAS

Bolivia

Today, travelers in Santa Cruz should reconfirm routes and expect disruption during a planned 24-hour blockade by unionized transportation workers. Demonstrators intend to surround the city with roadblocks after failing to reach an agreement with the government over controversial transportation legislation. Transportation services in the city will be affected, and the erection of roadblocks is liable to significantly disrupt road travel, including journeys to and from Viru Viru International Airport (VVI).

Brazil

Avianca Brasil, the fourth-largest airline in Brazil, filed for bankruptcy protection, citing high fuel costs and volatile currency markets. The airline warns passengers that services could be severely impacted as an attempt to repossess 14 of its leased aircraft is under way. Avianca has asked a…

THE AMERICAS

Bolivia

Today, travelers in Santa Cruz should reconfirm routes and expect disruption during a planned 24-hour blockade by unionized transportation workers. Demonstrators intend to surround the city with roadblocks after failing to reach an agreement with the government over controversial transportation legislation. Transportation services in the city will be affected, and the erection of roadblocks is liable to significantly disrupt road travel, including journeys to and from Viru Viru International Airport (VVI).

Brazil

Avianca Brasil, the fourth-largest airline in Brazil, filed for bankruptcy protection, citing high fuel costs and volatile currency markets. The airline warns passengers that services could be severely impacted as an attempt to repossess 14 of its leased aircraft is under way. Avianca has asked a…

THE AMERICAS

Regional

Dozens of people have been infected with Escherichia coli in the United States and Canada. Investigations are ongoing, though the illness appears to be associated with the consumption of romaine lettuce. E. coli spreads through contaminated food, as well as from one person to another. It can cause gastroenteritis, with symptoms of abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever, and vomiting typically occurring about three days after exposure. Most people recover in about ten days without treatment but some, especially young children and the elderly, can develop serious complications, including Hemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS). Travelers should prevent infection by paying attention to hygiene and carefully selecting foods. Travelers are also advised to avoid romaine lettuce and salad mixes containing…

THE AMERICAS

United States

Today, travelers in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia should expect significant disruption and maintain flexible itineraries during the passage of Winter Storm Diego. The storm has brought freezing rain and accumulating snow and ice to most of North Carolina and Virginia, and parts of South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. At Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), more than 800 scheduled flights were canceled yesterday. The storm has caused significant power outages and rendered driving nearly impossible in the worst-affected areas.

Belize

Two attacks on expatriates were reported in early December, both in the morning near the victims’ homes. A Canadian man was attacked by armed men early on Saturday, December 1 while leaving his home…