Chris J Reed的动态

Understanding Cultural Atmosphere and Potential Corruption: Essential for Safe Travels When traveling abroad, especially to regions with high levels of corruption, understanding the local cultural atmosphere and potential corruption risks is critical to preventing hostile incidents. A recent incident involving a British tourist beaten by security guards in Pattaya, Thailand, underscores the importance of being aware of local security dynamics and the potential for corruption. The tourist, enjoying drinks with friends at the Helicopter Bar on Soi 6, disputed a ￡60 bill, leading to a violent altercation with security guards. Video footage shows the guards attacking the men, with one tourist being kicked in the head and left motionless, reportedly in a coma. This incident highlights the dangers travelers can face when conflicts escalate in areas with questionable security practices. Key Considerations: 1. Cultural Awareness: Different countries have unique cultural norms and practices. Misunderstanding or ignoring these can lead to unnecessary conflicts. In Thailand, for example, disputes over bills can escalate quickly if not handled with cultural sensitivity. 2. Corruption Risks: High levels of corruption can affect all aspects of travel, from dealing with local authorities to ensuring personal safety. The aggressive response by the security personnel in this incident may reflect deeper systemic issues within the local enforcement structures. 3. Security Precautions: In regions where corruption is prevalent, the effectiveness of local law enforcement can be compromised. This means travelers need to take additional precautions to protect themselves. Understanding local laws and being cautious in interactions with officials are crucial steps to avoid potential problems. Practical Steps: Research Before Travel: Always research your destination's cultural norms and corruption levels. Stay Informed: Stay abreast of current events and potential risks in the areas you plan to visit. Engage with Local Experts: If possible, connect with local security experts or services who understand the local landscape and can provide guidance and support. Awareness and preparation can minimize risks and ensure a safer and more enjoyable travel experience. https://lnkd.in/edvz6k53) Stay informed. Stay safe. Protect yourself and your loved ones. #TravelSafety #CulturalAwareness #CorruptionRisks #SecuritySolutions #EGSSecuritySolutions #protector #securityguard #securityofficer

SCAM ALERT – FRAUDULENT EMAILS USING OUR CONSULATE'S NAME We would like to alert the public about fraudulent emails being circulated, falsely claiming to originate from the Honorary Consulate General of Greece in Malaysia. One such email, with the subject line "RFP 097.1/AS 1006 Travel Management Services", pretends to be sent from our official email address ([email protected]). While the email address may appear legitimate, this email is not genuine and was not issued by our Consulate. We have no connection with the sender or the contents of these messages. The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities, and investigations are actively underway. Please remain vigilant. If you receive any suspicious communication purportedly from our Consulate, do not engage with it. Instead, verify its authenticity by contacting us directly at [email protected]. We appreciate your cooperation in spreading this warning to help others avoid being misled. Kind regards, Honorary Consulate General of Greece in Malaysia

"Messrs Amir Khusyairi & Associates partner Nik Erman Nik Roseli explained the limitations of current laws in protecting victims. He noted that consumers dealing with unlicensed travel agents are not protected under the Tourism Industry Act 1992. “The act does not provide MOTAC with powers to recover financial losses for victims. Consumers must file claims at the Consumer Tribunal for sums below RM50,000 or pursue civil claims for higher amounts,” he told TMR. Nik Erman also noted the jurisdictional challenges of pursuing legal action when the operator resides abroad. He said even with a court judgment, enforcement may require filing a new claim in the operator’s country of residence, such as South Korea, highlighting the complexity and cost of seeking justice. The legal hurdles often deter victims from taking action, further compounding their losses." #commerciallawyer https://lnkd.in/g2wVysE2

Australia and NZ to begin New Caledonia evacuations: Australia and New Zealand say they have received clearance to send planes to New Caledonia to pick up travellers stranded after unrest shut down the international airport. Australia is deploying two planes on Tuesday to evacuate some of the 300 of its citizens who have registered for assistance in the French Pacific territory. The first of “a series” of proposed flights will also leave New Zealand and bring about 50 people home, the government in Wellington said. The unrest began last week after lawmakers in Paris voted through changes that will allow more French residents to vote in local elections, a move indigenous leaders say will dilute the political influence of native people. Four civilians – including at least three indigenous Kanak residents – have been killed in riots along with two police officers. Dozens more have been injured and more than 200 people have so far been arrested. Both Australia and New Zealand said they would prioritise flying out those with the most “pressing need”, with passenger lists being organised by consular staff. Tourists from “other countries” would also be assisted, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said. As well as witnessing fires and looting, holidaymakers who have been stuck for more than a week have reported food shortages. “The situation in New Caledonia remains dynamic, and New Zealand officials are continuing to work with French counterparts and other partners especially Australia to understand what is needed to ensure the safety of our people there,” New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters said. Around 290 New Zealanders are believed to be in New Caledonia. Australian tourist Maxwell Winchester told AFP that he and and his wife Tiffany were “ecstatic” at the prospect of getting home after being confined to a resort near Nouméa for over a week. “We realise we probably won’t get on these flights, because those who have higher needs will get on them, but we at least know we have a way out in the next few days,” he said. The French High Commission in New Caledonia say French gendarmes trying to take back control of the 60km (37 mile) road between Nouméa and La Tontouta international have “neutralised” 76 roadblocks and are now clearing debris such as burnt-out vehicles. Travel advice by the Australian government has warned people not to try and get to the airport themselves saying the route “is not yet considered safe”. The airport remains closed for commercial flights, and a decision on when to reopen it will be reassessed on Thursday, the local government said. It has estimated that about 3,200 people are waiting to leave or enter New Caledonia. France has flown in 1,050 extra police to boost security in the territory, with a further 600 reinforcements to arrive “in the coming hours”, France’s High Commission in New Caledonia said on…

“More Chinese travelers are avoiding Thailand after the recent kidnapping of a Chinese actor raised safety concerns about the country. On Jan. 5, a social media post revealed that Wang Xing, a minor Chinese actor, went missing in a northwestern Thai town near the Myanmar border after traveling to Thailand for a casting session.He was forcibly taken across a river into Myanmar, where he was coerced into learning scamming techniques. Wang was rescued on Jan. 7 in a joint operation by Thai and Myanmar authorities, who identified him as a victim of human trafficking. The incident has heightened fears about the safety in Thailand, prompting some Chinese tourists to reconsider trips to the Southeast Asian country, famous for its beaches and ancient temples. Several Chinese tourists told Caixin that they had canceled plans to visit Thailand during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, which runs from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4.” “With one saying he would not ‘visit Thailand in the next several years,’ citing widespread rumors of human trafficking. An employee at a private airline said the carrier had calls from passengers asking to cancel their flight to Thailand. ‘An increasing number of passengers are adopting a wait-and-see attitude, while some are switching their travel plans to destinations like Japan,’ the source said. From Jan. 7 to 12, the daily average number of flights between China and Thailand was 293, with 26 daily cancellations, compared with 297 and 22 cancellations on Jan. 6, according to flight data from Flight Master. No details about flight occupancy rate were given. Fang Xin, general manager of a Shanghai-based travel agency, said about 15% of bookings for flights to Thailand had been refunded since Wang’s disappearance. He also noted a sharp drop in trip inquiries. A state-owned airline representative added that carriers may cancel or consolidate flights if ticket cancellations continue to grow.” “Online travel agencies have yet to implement a full refund policy for canceled flights to Thailand, with any changes dependent on how airlines adjust to the situation. On Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform, posts under the hashtag ‘cancel tickets for flights to Thailand with a refund’ exceeded 10,000 as of Monday. The repercussions from Wang’s ordeal have affected the entertainment industry. On Jan. 10, Hong Kong singer Eason Chan cancelled the Bangkok leg of his ‘Fear And Dreams’ world tour, scheduled for Feb. 22 at the Impact Arena. The event’s organizer cited safety concerns for Chinese fans traveling to Thailand. Thailand has long been a favorite destination for Chinese travelers. During the Lunar New Year travel season, flights between China and Thailand are expected to reach 12,841, recovering to 74.8% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019, according to Flight Master.”

Passenger luggage delay to attract $170, N10,000 fines – NCAA The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has vowed to take tough measures against airlines that delay passengers’ luggage. The regulatory agency said it will impose fines of $170 and N10,000 on foreign and local airlines, respectively for delayed passengers’ luggage as a first measure to guide against such an act. In October in Abuja, the NCAA stated that passengers could claim up to $1,000 for missing luggage on domestic flights as well as $1,288 Special Drawing Rights for international flights. Speaking on Monday during a roadshow organised by NCAA at the Lagos airport to sensitise passengers who will be travelling during the yuletide, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, assured that the regulatory agency would implement the sanctions against any erring airline to the latter. Achimugu regretted that for a very long time, most of the air travellers were unaware of their rights, which made the airlines continue to violate them. The NCAA publicist explained that with the roadshow, the travelling public would be more aware of their rights in the NCAA acts and the appropriate quarters to complain to. He said: “For way too long, Nigerians have been claiming not to know about the existence and the duties of the NCAA. Our duty, which is what we owe Nigerians, is to bring awareness to the industry. The passengers need to become more aware of their rights so that airlines will not continue to cheat them. “The little things about the regulations that the passengers need to know, for instance, if you arrive at an airport and your luggage didn’t arrive with you, most passengers do not know that they have a right to demand compensation from the airlines. “If it is a domestic flight, you can walk to the airline’s counter to demand for your N10,000 for not bringing your bag with you. For international flights, it is $170. A lot of passengers do not know this thing, but today, we are bringing an end to that circle of ignorance. We are bringing the regulations to Nigerians in an exciting manner.” The post Passenger luggage delay to attract $170, N10,000 fines – NCAA appeared first on Akelicious.

?? Say NO to Airport Touting! ?? Navigating airports should be a seamless and secure experience for everyone. Unfortunately, airport touting poses a significant risk to travelers, leading to potential scams, harassment, and unsafe situations. The Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is taking a firm stance against these illegal activities. By working together, we can create a safer environment for all. Here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself: 1. Use Authorized Services Only: Always approach official counters or use trusted apps for bookings and services. 2. Avoid Unlicensed Personnel: Do not engage with individuals offering unsolicited services, especially if they are not in uniform or lack proper identification. 3. Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter suspicious behavior, report immediately! Call: 09150728136 or visit reportgov.ng. Let’s all contribute to making our airports safe and welcoming for everyone. Spread the word and join the movement to #SayNoToAirportTouting! #TravelSafe #AirportSecurity #FAAN #Nigeria #TravelTips

The Canadian government has issued an updated travel advisory for Thailand, urging travelers to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid specific regions due to heightened security risks. The advisory highlights threats from criminal and politically motivated violence, particularly in the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, Songkhla, and Yala. These areas have experienced bombings, shootings, and arson attacks targeting public spaces and government facilities, posing significant risks to visitors. Additional concerns apply to provinces near the Myanmar-Thai border, including Mae Hong Son and Tak. These areas face sporadic violence, clashes between government forces and drug traffickers, and incidents of banditry. Travelers are advised to use only official border crossings with proper documentation, though these crossings may close without notice. The advisory also emphasizes avoiding the Preah Vihear Temple area near the Cambodian border due to landmines and ongoing tensions. Political instability across Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, adds to the volatile security environment. Authorities have the power to impose curfews, restrict movement, conduct searches for weapons, and censor media. Access to social media and other communication platforms may also be suspended without warning, potentially disrupting travel plans. Canadians traveling to Thailand should be aware that these risks may affect their travel insurance coverage. In case of emergencies, travelers are encouraged to contact the Honorary Consul in Chiang Mai, the Consulate General of Australia in Phuket, or the Canadian Embassy in Bangkok. For urgent assistance, they can also reach out to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa. For detailed updates and advice on traveling safely in Thailand, visit SwifteRadio.com. #swifteradio ??#walltowall ??#diasporaradio ??#ImmigrantRadio??#africansindiaspora ?#nigeriansindiaspora ?#DiasporaImmigrant

The EU’s new entry/exit system (EES), which would impose new checks on travellers from the UK into the bloc, is reportedly set to be delayed again. Latest?reports say that the system will be delayed from its previous implementation date of 6 October to 10 November, with a “last resort” extension to 17 November should it be required. It was originally scheduled to launch in 2021. The bloc is also said to be planning a relief valve provision, in which new biometric checks required of passengers could be waived if queues become too large at border crossings. It was estimated in 2022?that the checks could make the process of crossing the border up to four times longer for British travellers. Earlier this year, the Port of Dover and ferry companies including Irish Ferries and P&O delivered written evidence to the European Scrutiny Committee. This flagged a risk to supply chains as a result of the system. EES is an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross an EU external border. Those travelling will be required to register biometric data, as well as their name and passport details, in person at Dover or St. Pancras stations – where the Eurostar services operate – to be allowed to enter or exit the EU.