Travel Alerts & Updates

The EU will introduce the Entry/Exit System (EES) in late 2025, replacing passport stamping with an automated system that records entry and exit data for non-EU travellers visiting the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).

Who is Affected?

• Applies to all non-EU nationals, including those who do not require a visa.
• Exemptions: EU citizens and those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

What to Expect

• Biometric data collection (fingerprints & facial images) at border crossings.
• Increased processing times initially as the system is implemented.
• Overstay tracking to improve security and manage irregular entries.

ETIAS (mid-2025): Visa-exempt travellers must apply for pre-travel authorisation (€7 fee).

We will continue monitoring updates and share further details as they become available.

Last updated: 18/03/2025

The Government of Tanzania has officially declared the Marburg virus disease outbreak over. This announcement follows 42 days with no new reported cases since the last confirmed case on 28 January 2025.

Marburg virus is a rare but severe disease, similar to Ebola, with outbreaks closely monitored by health authorities. The conclusion of this outbreak is a positive development for both public health and travel in the region.

As always, we encourage travellers to stay informed and follow general health and hygiene precautions when visiting any destination. For further guidance, refer to the latest travel health advice from relevant health authorities.

• No current travel restrictions related to Marburg virus in Tanzania.
• No reported cases since January 2025.

For more updates, check our safety alerts regularly.

Last updated: 17/03/2025

We are closely monitoring reports of continued seismic activity between the islands of Santorini (Thira) and Amorgos in Greece. Although seismologists are unable to predict when the activity will fully cease, scientists generally agree that the number, strength, and frequency of tremors have been decreasing.

Over the past few weeks, Santorini has experienced a decline in seismic activity following the earthquake series that began in late January. With the reduced tremors, authorities have allowed schools to reopen, and residents have gradually returned to the island, marking a step toward normalcy as the island welcomes its first visitors once again. Greek authorities have not issued an official evacuation order, at this time.

At present, our tours in the region are not scheduled to begin until April, but we continue to assess the situation closely. We recommend following official updates from the FCDO.

If you have any concerns or would like to discuss your travel plans, our team is available to assist. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further guidance. Your safety remains our top priority, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Last updated: 13/03/2025

There are heightened political tensions in South Korea with large demonstrations, particularly in Seoul. The demonstrations are limited to specific areas that our adventure doesn’t visit, however our Pack Leaders are also offering extra guidance on any areas it’s not safe to explore.

These demonstrations are likely to continue following the vote to impeach President Yoon on the 14th Dec 2024, as the Constitutional Court has up to 180 days after the vote to decide whether to uphold the impeachment.

We do not foresee any changes to our South Korea adventure at this time, but we continue to monitor the situation.

Last updated: 11/03/2025

The Israel-Palestine conflict has recently escalated, with tensions now extending to Lebanon as of October 2024, but despite this, travel advisories for both Egypt and Jordan remain unchanged, and Flash Pack adventures continue as scheduled with smooth arrivals. We prioritise your safety by consistently monitoring travel advisories from trusted sources such as the FCDO and the US Department of State, staying up-to-date with global news and local developments, and maintaining regular communication with our local teams and Pack Leaders to ensure the safety and security of all of our travellers.

We have a dedicated FAQ page regarding your safety in the Middle East which can be found here.

Last updated: 11/03/2025

Methanol-laced alcohol has been linked to severe health issues and fatalities across Laos and Southeast Asia, with this toxic substance often found in counterfeit versions of popular brands or unregulated local spirits like vodka.

It is essential to exercise caution when consuming alcohol, particularly if it’s offered for free or sold at unusually low prices, and if the appearance, aroma, or flavour seems off. Particular caution is needed with locally produced spirits such as rice wine or palm liquor, spirit-based beverages like cocktails, or fake branded alcohol.

In Laos, authorities have banned Tiger Vodka and Tiger Whisky due to serious health concerns. Guidelines suggest only purchasing drinks served at licensed bars or hotels, avoid homemade or bootleg beverages, check bottle seals for intactness and watch for label errors such as low-quality printing or spelling mistakes. Staying vigilant and making informed choices can significantly reduce the risk of methanol poisoning.

Last updated: 11/03/2025

As of 20 December 2024, the Government of Rwanda has declared an official end to the Marburg virus outbreak that emerged on 27 September 2024. Rwanda is currently free of Marburg Virus. The outbreak was linked to contact with fruit bats in a mine near Kigali.

Although the last confirmed case was recorded on 30 October 2024, a residual risk persists. This stems from the possibility of the virus lingering in the bodily fluids of recovered individuals. Flash Pack’s Customer Safety team will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if necessary.

In the last month there has been increased tension along the Rwanda – DRC border which has led to the FCDO to advise against travel to Rubavu and against all but essential travel to areas within 10km of the DRC border, including Kamembe Airport and the Rwandan islands in Lake Kivu.

We are closely monitoring developments and we are working with our teams on the ground and our safety advisors to ensure that our tours remain safe to run.

Last updated: 11/03/2025