Published on
September 14, 2025
By: Rana Pratap
France’s latest travel advice has drawn attention to some new areas of concern to international travelers. Smartphone users with facile skills can now shift border areas from card to digitized lists. These countries include the new entries of Montenegro, Poland, Singapore, India, Nepal, and Madagascar, now flagged for varying degrees of conflict and civic disorder and their attendant fallout. These include, but are not restricted to, the wildfires engulfing Montenegro, the closed borders of Poland, the tantrum of nature over Mishra in the Singaporean terrarium, the meteorological mayhem possessing paradise, and the blackout over the Madagascar. Travelers are encouraged to analyze and plan strategically and then follow their guides on the ground to minimize discord over their carefully constructed journeys to those areas.
Montenegro: Fire Risks Heightened Amid Severe Drought
Montenegro is experiencing one of its hottest summers in years, with severe drought conditions leading to an increased risk of wildfires. Every day, reports of new fires breaking out in different parts of the country are becoming more frequent. The ongoing heatwave has dried up forests, making them highly susceptible to fire. Authorities have issued a warning for tourists, urging them to avoid areas with visible fires or those designated as high-risk zones.
The drought and intense heat have caused daily disruptions, with fires sometimes spreading quickly due to the dry conditions. Travelers are advised to stay informed about the current situation, check local news, and follow the guidance provided by authorities. In areas where fires are reported, it is important to follow the designated evacuation routes and heed the instructions of local officials.
Local authorities have also been encouraging tourists to exercise extreme caution when traveling in affected regions. This is especially true for rural areas or mountainous regions that might not have the same level of infrastructure as more populated areas.
Poland: Security Concerns and Border Closures
Poland has faced a series of security challenges that have affected its travel and border policies. In early September 2025, Polish airspace was violated by Russian drones, leading to the temporary closure of airports. This event caused flight delays and cancellations, and travelers were advised to check with airlines for real-time updates.
Adding to the uncertainty, Poland’s government has implemented new border restrictions due to national security concerns. Since September 11, 2025, Poland closed its borders with Belarus, including all rail and road crossings. This move was prompted by rising tensions with Belarus and its proximity to Russia.
In addition to these measures, Poland has reintroduced temporary border controls with Germany and Lithuania. This means travelers crossing into Poland by bus, train, or car should expect increased security checks, which may cause delays on cross-border routes.
Tourists who plan to visit Poland should be aware of the potential delays, particularly at border crossings and in regions close to the Belarusian border. Staying updated on the political situation and checking the status of travel routes will be important to avoid disruptions.
Singapore: Tightened E-Cigarette Laws
Singapore has recently tightened its laws on e-cigarettes, making it one of the strictest countries in terms of electronic smoking devices. Since September 1, 2025, any foreign national found in possession of e-cigarettes faces severe penalties. First-time offenders could face heavy fines, while repeat offenders will be expelled from the country and banned from re-entering.
This new regulation applies not only to tourists but also to transit passengers. Passengers traveling through Singapore with e-cigarettes in their cabin baggage will be checked before boarding their connecting flights. Singapore’s government has enforced this law to curb the growing popularity of e-cigarettes and to ensure the health of its citizens.
Travelers heading to Singapore should take note of this strict policy and avoid carrying e-cigarettes or any similar devices in their luggage. Even if you are just transiting through the country, you could face legal consequences for carrying these items.
India: Political Unrest and Natural Disasters
India’s travel advisory is largely shaped by ongoing political unrest and natural disasters. In the state of Manipur, violent clashes have been taking place between local protesters and security forces. Since May 2023, the region has been facing instability, with protests causing disruptions in daily life, including in the state capital, Imphal.
As a result, authorities have imposed several traffic restrictions in Imphal, particularly around Kangla Fort. Travelers are strongly advised to avoid non-essential travel to Manipur, as the situation remains volatile. It is also recommended to avoid any public gatherings in the region to stay safe.
In addition to the political unrest, India is currently experiencing heavy monsoon rains, leading to flooding and landslides in multiple states. Areas like Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh have seen significant damage due to the weather. Travelers planning to visit these regions should stay informed about the weather situation and prepare for potential delays or disruptions.
Moreover, Mumbai has also been affected by heavy rainfall, causing flooding and flight delays at the city’s airport. Travelers flying in or out of Mumbai should expect some disruptions due to low visibility and adverse weather conditions.
Nepal: Service Interruptions Following Protests
Nepal is dealing with service disruptions caused by ongoing protests, which have led to uncertainty across the country. These protests are mostly related to political and social issues, and they have affected public transport, government services, and even basic infrastructure. Tourists should remain cautious during their visit and avoid areas where protests may occur.
The protests have also caused delays in transportation services, including domestic flights and long-distance buses. Visitors should check with their accommodation and transportation providers for real-time information on any service interruptions.
Additionally, the general uncertainty in the country following recent political unrest means that travelers should be prepared for changes in local conditions. It is advisable to stay updated on the situation and follow the guidance provided by the authorities.
Madagascar: Water and Power Shortages Persist
Madagascar, particularly its capital city, Antananarivo, is facing significant water and electricity shortages. Some neighborhoods have been without water for extended periods, and power outages are common, often lasting more than four hours each day. These shortages have affected daily life, including businesses, public services, and accommodations.
Travelers are advised to ensure that their accommodations are equipped to handle these shortages, as some hotels and guesthouses may not have reliable water or power supply. In addition to these shortages, there have also been protests related to the power outages, which led to limited damage in some areas.
The National Gendarmerie has emphasized that tourists should exercise caution and avoid demonstrations. Although there has been a decrease in crime rates since July 2025, authorities still advise travelers to remain vigilant during their stay.
France has issued a new travel advisory for Montenegro, Poland, Singapore, India, Nepal, and Madagascar due to escalating security risks, environmental disasters, political instability, and stricter regulations. Travelers are advised to stay informed and exercise caution when visiting these countries.
What Travelers Need to Know
The recent travel advisory issued by France underscores the importance of staying informed and prepared when traveling to Montenegro, Poland, Singapore, India, Nepal, and Madagascar. While these countries offer rich cultural and natural experiences, it’s crucial to be aware of the challenges they currently face.
For Montenegro, travelers should prioritize safety by avoiding fire-prone areas and staying updated on fire risk levels. In Poland, travelers should be prepared for security measures at borders and check the status of flights due to airspace violations. In Singapore, the new e-cigarette law is a strict measure that travelers must follow to avoid penalties. India’s ongoing unrest and heavy rains require travelers to remain cautious, especially in affected regions. Nepal’s political instability and service disruptions demand extra care in travel planning, while Madagascar’s ongoing water and power shortages mean that travelers should ensure their accommodations are well-equipped.
By staying informed about these challenges, following local advice, and being flexible with travel plans, visitors can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience in these countries.
